《Introverts' Impression's Interlude; Sato to Yamada no Yume》


 Volume 1; Chapter 1; Every Bookworm Must Switch Apples Once In A While

    ''''What have I gotten myself into..?'''' Said Raichi, as he woke up to the end of the long-lasting summer break, now into school. His family had only just moved to a new part of the city, where he would go to a different school. The cool dude himself, Hiroshi Kimura managed to convince Raichi''s family to move there, knowing he would drag Raichi to places he knew he didn''t want to. With his alarm by his side, Raichi reflexively smacked to his left, hitting the desk but not his alarm.


    Ouch..


    Then he got up to manually close it. A mother''s voice could be heard in the distance.


    "C''mon dear, come get your breakfast."


    "Coming!" He shouted. He always liked to dress up before he ate breakfast, so he quickly got in his new school uniform. As usual, he had worn his neutral expression. But he still had found the energy to spit out a greeting.


    "Good morning."


    "Good morning dear." Said Emiko Sato, Raichi''s mother. Emiko knew something that Raichi didn''t. How they came to choose this house as their option to move, and who was the influence on the decision. While munching on his food, Raichi thought about his upcoming days in the new school. Would it be any different? And how so? After eating, he didn''t have much time to waste, so he had to take his leave. He got to the door and put on his shoes.


    ''''I sadly gotta go so soon, Mom.''''


    ''''Seems you set your alarm a little too late dear.''''


    ''''That''s because I knew school was the same as always.''''


    ''''Oh no, it isn''t.''''


    ''''Hmm?'''' Raichi looked back in confusion. He wondered what could his mother possibly mean. After a silent second or two, his mother looked at him, saying


    ''''Just open the door. You''ll find that someone''s waiting for you.'''' Emiko points at the door.


    ''''Okay..?''''


    Lo and behold, Raichi opens the door to find the man, the myth, the legend; Hiroshi Kimura. The cool dude he had been friends with for years. His brown hair and athletic charm exuded confidence. Raichi had always considered himself lucky to be friends with this..honestly a man at this point. It felt weird that this guy was the same age as him. The cool dude in front of him was almost like a dear friend to Raichi''s father, Kaito. Whenever he had come over, before they went to hang out in Raichi''s room, his father would ''''borrow'''' the kid for thirty minutes and talk on for a while. He was like family to both parents. He was on his bike.


    ''''Hey there dude! Hi Sato-san!''''


    ''''Oh, Kimura-kun. I see you accepted my offer to pick him up.'''' Said Emiko.


    ''''Of course, I did. Mind I park the bike here?''''


    ''''Sure.'''' While Hiroshi was parking his bike, Raichi thought to himself with a smirk. He was kinda happy to have such a friend.


    ''''Good morning Hiroshi-kun.''''


    ''''Morning Raichi-kun.''''


    While chatting, something about Hiroshi caught his attention, he hadn''t realized it at first and thought how similar their school uniforms were. And then it hit him. It wasn''t even similar, they were the exact same. The school his parents decided to sign him up for was none other than the same school as his only two friends. His eyes widened in surprise.


    No way...


    ''''Mother, you didn''t tell me I''d be going to the same school as Hiroshi-kun.''''


    ''''Oh, well you see, it was Hiroshi-kun himself that convinced us to move here to this very apartment. So you could be in the same school as him.''''


    ''''What?!'''' He reacted out. He was flabbergasted. Why would they not tell him he thought. The reason wasn''t because he was going to be in the same school or anything, but it was definitely one of them.


    ''''Yup! I thought it''d be great for you to be with the two friends you knew.''''


    ''''I never told you about Hara-chan.''''


    ''''Again, I learned about it from your mother. I reckon we will cross her path too.''''


    ''''..Sure.''''


    At that point, Emiko had already closed the door, so Raichi had no choice but to follow his buddy. So he tagged along. As they kept walking through the sorta unknown streets, Raichi could see many of the other students also making their way to the school. He knew he already had two friends, but he felt conflicted, aware of the fact that he wanted more. Was he really that proud of his alone time? His envious stare was on the front and row, and Hiroshi could see it. His cool dude reflexes knew that the best thing to do in this situation was to grin like a crescent. He knew his best friend more than anyone else. His summer plans had all led up to this moment. The moment he''d turn Raichi''s life around. He aimed to take down the walls he''d set up around himself. These walls wouldn''t take it down themselves. And until he showed the person inside how good the outside is, the person inside wouldn''t be willing to leave. He was thinking to himself quite clearly because Raichi had found himself staring at Hiroshi instead. Realizing he was being stared at, he let his guard down. And then, out of nowhere, a black-haired girl had jumped to their path. The petite girl had shouted


    "Hey, bookworm!"She said.


    "Good morning Hara-chan." Raichi replied. In front of them stood Hara Suzuki. Another one of Raichi''s friends. She was preferably closer than Hiroshi was. Mostly because Hiroshi seemed closer to Raichi''s parents than he was to Raichi himself. He actually had a lot of alone time spent with Hara, as gamer buddies, they spent the majority of summer together. They both were self-proclaimed introverts. How accurate that statement was is still up for debate. Hara immediately looked at Hiroshi. Perhaps she had questions.


    "I know you from somewhere.. aren''t you Kimura-kun?"


    "Bingo. And you must be Suzuki-chan."


    "H-How do you know my name? I believe I don''t stand out too much."


    "From this dude of course."


    "Whoa. Raichi-kun you were best buds with Kimura-kun and you didn''t even bother telling me?"


    "Why should I talk about my other best friend with my best friend?"


    "Well, considering we''re the only friends you have, you''ve made quite the choice."


    "And why do you say that Suzuki-chan?"


    "Well duh, you''re probably the best friend he could have."


    "Oh no, he could very well make friends on his own. I''m just here to be the kicker. Because otherwise he isn''t inclined to do it himself." Said Hiroshi. He hadn''t meant it as an insult, but Raichi''s face clearly says otherwise. He looked away in discomfort.


    "Aww don''t be so sad, Raichi-kun. I''m sorry for talking about you like that in front of you. But I didn''t mean bad with it." Hiroshi said reassuringly with his hand on Raichi''s shoulder. Raichi smiled back.


    "It is true though. That''s why I took it to heart."


    "Don''t take it to heart too much. Although Raichi-kun, you look like the type to look out the window the entire time on the bus ride to school." Hara''s words had hit like an arrow. Hiroshi wanted to add a little too.


    "I think you''re also the type to never take your earphones off during that entire process."


    "Please stop..the way you guys accurately read me makes me really afraid." Said Raichi while turning away in discomfort.


    "If you want us to, sure dude."


    Then something hit Raichi. He should probably know whether he was approachable or unapproachable. Even though the answer was rather clear, he felt like asking.


    Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on."Do I..really act and look that unapproachable?" Raichi said. He was being a hundred percent honest with his wording. He looked at the two with expectance. Hiroshi and Hara seemed rather nervous coming up with an answer.


    "Be honest with me please."


    "Um, back when we used to be in the same class, yeah," Hara said. She looked like she had even more to say.


    "You always were just busy with your books. So of course, people didn''t want to disturb you, and your stance quite literally used to say ''Please don''t approach me.''."


    Raichi couldn''t think of what to say about what Hara thought of his appearance. He knew he should have considered himself lucky that Hara and Hiroshi insisted on disturbing him enough that he let them in his friend zone. Having to try to be someone''s friend must have made it really hard to be friends with him, and people could tell just from his appearance that they would have to do that to approach him. But seemingly, Raichi didn''t care too much. He always had a motto going for himself. It was that; Stranger''s opinions didn''t personally matter to him. He couldn''t care what the people around him thought of him. After all, he doesn''t know them, right?


    "That is..good to know. Although I wouldn''t care what they think."


    "What do you mean? Do you not care about what they think of you?"


    "Yeah. Stranger''s opinions don''t matter to me. I learned it the hard way."


    "T-The hard way..?"


    "I wouldn''t want to burden you with this topic, so drop it."


    "If you are uncomfortable with it, that''s fine Raichi-kun. But is there a bad reason as to why you ignore gossip to that degree?" She said. Hara knew her best friend better than anyone else. And yet, she was never told about how he has come to be so socially distant.


    "A reason that I''d rather not go into detail about, yes."


    "O-Okay.."


    Silence fell over the conversation. Realizing that, Hiroshi decided to change the subject quickly. He knew it was a sensitive topic.


    "Soo, Raichi-kun, what do you think about coming to our school?" Hiroshi added.


    "I had never been notified, so finding out now could only have me flabbergasted." He said rather bluntly.


    ''''I guess that''s to be expected."


    "I do..have a question though."


    "Go ahead."


    "How..judging are the students there?"


    ''''Judging?"


    Raichi hadn''t realized how bluntly he had said what he said. Such a question to think about asked in only less than 3 seconds. Hiroshi knew exactly what he had meant with the question. He kinda knew about Raichi''s experience with gossip, and how much of a victim of it he was.


    "They are..how you expect a school to be. Some yap, some don''t. They judge you for what they don''t have." Hara responded. "Gossip flows like water, realistically."


    "I...I see." Raichi said shyly. "You really wanna ignore gossip, and yet you have to follow it.. so you don''t become gossiptalk yourself. My previous classmates were quite a big fan. They didn''t have anything worthwhile in their lives, so anything worth talking about got talked about."


    "And..what did the topics include?"


    "Things such as who is going out with whom. Any topic realistically did not leave people''s mouths for weeks, because the heads of it all kept talking, and won''t let the topic die."


    When Raichi had suddenly spoken so deeply, the only thing Hiroshi and Hara could do was watch and listen. Hiroshi was thinking of something to say. But before he could, Raichi kept talking.


    "Well, and that''s why I try to not stand out."


    "Raichi-kun..why not just be yourself?"


    "No. I''ve tried to be myself before. But they wouldn''t accept me, so I refused them back. And I have tried to fit in, too."


    "But you''re with us. So there isn''t anything to worry about."


    "Good to know." The silence kept the three walking. They were almost at the school, and Hiroshi''s plan had worked, but yet..the conversation had taken a deep turn.


    I think I brought the mood down...


    "I... I''m sorry for suddenly changing the mood." Raichi said, his arm being held by the other, shyly turned away.


    "No no, I think it''s pretty sweet how honest you were just now." Said Hara. She giggled after finishing her sentence. It seemed she saw it as kinda sweet. She always saw Raichi as the neutral kid, so hearing something so serious out of his mouth, she found it kinda cute. Hiroshi couldn''t help but blush at the sight.


    "Wow. I wasn''t informed on how close you two were." Said the cool dude, grinning as he always does.


    "Oh shut up." They responded at the same time. Although Raichi was more nonchalant.


    "And why do you need to be informed?"


    "Isn''t it obvious? I can''t guide your parents on why you should move here if I don''t get to the ins and outs of your social circle. It adds on as another reason."


    Another reason huh?


    Raichi wondered why Hiroshi wanted him to be here so much. After all, he went through the trouble of convincing his parents, which probably didn''t cost too much effort. Whether he had selfish intentions or not, he seemed to be doing it in goodwill. So for now, he would let go of his suspicions. What he had been on the lookout for, was Hiroshi''s shenanigans. He knew Hiroshi had a liking for making him do things that he necessarily didn''t want to. But even he had to admit that, in the end, most of the things he is forced into doing actually end up being enjoyable. But of course, his intuition told him to ask anyway.


    "Hey Hiroshi-kun."


    "What is it Raichi-kun?"


    "Why exactly were you so intent on making us move here of all places?"


    "I...I''d say the answer is simple. You already heard it at your door."


    "I did?" Raichi looked back in confusion.


    "Your mother said it. I convinced your family to move here so you would go to the same school as the two of us and be with the only two people you are comfortable around."


    "..It seems my mother told you a lot of things about me."


    "There already was..a lot I knew myself. She just confirmed them for me." Hiroshi said with his arm on Raichi''s shoulder as they walked alongside. Raichi couldn''t help but smile. He really was grateful. He had always kept to himself, but not around his friends. It was about time to show gratitude.


    "Y''know what Hiroshi-kun..thank you."


    "No need to thank me. But I have a suggestion."


    "A suggestion?"


    "You will listen to my advice, and I shall help you socialize."


    "Oh.. it''s about this again."


    "That''s right," Hiroshi said with a confident pose and expression. Raichi knew exactly where this was going. And he had to admit that it sounded enticing.


    "Look, we both know you want more friends, right? Friends like us, who respect you more than you respect yourself."


    "Hey, don''t put it like that. But it is true."


    "And..you are also scared of being judged for who you are."


    "Yes, it is true. You read me like a book."


    "Well, the answer is easy, don''t you think?"


    "Is it?" Hara added.


    "It is. You just gotta find someone that''s similar to you. And the answer lies within that building over there." Hiroshi knew that with his guidance, Raichi would be just fine. Hiroshi pointed at the building they had left the house for; school.


    .

 Volume 1; Chapter 2; A New Apple A Day,Keeps the Bookworm Away

    This feeling..


    After entering the garden, Raichi felt the unfamiliar presence once again after months. The feeling of entering the garden for a repeating day of classes was perhaps indifferent from the last time. Or perhaps it was going to turn out differently.


    However, in the end, Raichi''s hopes for school were as low as they used to be. And now, they were going to find their respective classes and seats. Being in the same class as Hiroshi and Hara didn''t sound like such a bad idea, and he wasn''t necessarily opposed to it.


    Just the ideas that came with it seemed like they''d be in dangerous territory. He gulped while going over to the names list. The area was full of people. Everyone was looking for their names, so the garden was filled to the brim. The environment felt anxious and easily readable.


    "C''mon. Perhaps we''ll be in the same class, won''t that be awesome?"


    "Honestly, yeah."


    "Then what are you nervous about? Let''s go." Hiroshi said with his usual confident grin.


    Raichi, looking around could see the crowd around the board. Seeing how crowded it was, he understood how hard it''d be to get near. He just got an idea. He was going to use the camera''s zoom feature.


    When Raichi randomly pulled out his phone, Hiroshi and Hara were watching him curiously. When they perfectly understood just what he was trying to do, they went ''Ooh!''.


    "Wow, nice thinking there, bookworm."


    "Thank you, thank you.", Raichi said with a grin. "Now, do you guys want to look for your names first?"


    "Sure, lemme look for mine!" Hiroshi said and started looking through the list from afar. As he was looking and reading, he saw a familiar name. It read ''Yaori Yamada''. He recognized the name for a few reasons. Her reputation went as far as to have a nickname.


    ''''Oh, look who it is!''''


    ''''What is it Kimura-kun?''''


    ''''It''s the Acing Bookworm. She landed in grade B.''''


    ''''Oh? What grade are we in? Perhaps we landed on the same grade.''''


    ''''I''m sorry, who are you two talking about?'''' Raichi said curiously. As someone who had only recently moved, he hadn''t heard of whoever they were talking about. So he ended up asking them.


    "Oh yeah, you don''t know her. I kinda forgot about that." Said Hara with an understanding expression. They decided not to keep Raichi in the dark.


    "You see, the Acing Bookworm is Yamada-san''s nickname. She is mainly popular because of her unusually high grades and the fact that she was usually seen reading and kept to herself all the time." Hiroshi explained. Raichi looked back in confusion. That''s exactly the same thing he does. How come she got positive attention, while people thought weirdly of him instead? He wanted to know why.


    "Wait... But that''s exactly what I do."


    "No, it isn''t. Unlike you, she is good at her grades." Hiroshi said bluntly. His words had hit like a truck. Raichi knew his grades weren''t as good as they should be, and that''s because he wasn''t trying. He knew he was a high-potential student who would have very good grades if he worked just enough, yet he never really paid any attention to it. He''d always note down everything useful and necessary and study just enough to have an above-average grade.


    ''''Ouch. There was no need for that...''''


    ''''I guess so. But still, there is a difference between being distant, and being cold.''''


    ''''I get it.'''' Raichi said,understandingly.


    ''''Although, didn''t the teacher say to your face that you have great potential to tap into?'''' Hiroshi asked.


    ''''They did. But I don''t need to take it seriously. All I care is that I pass.''''


    ''''That''s... A stupid thing to say, Raichi-kun!'''' Hara said. She looked visibly frustrated. Raichi had jumped back in surprise. He hadn''t expected his friend to get angry. But, Hara had found the words that came out of Raichi''s mouth stupid. And perhaps rightfully so. Is it so hard to give it your all, she thought.


    "Aren''t you hearing yourself?"


    "I..am. I don''t really care about getting a good grade."


    "But..what do your parents think about your grades?"


    "They..get occasionally very happy when I accidentally try too much."


    "Seriously..?" She said disappointingly. She decided to quickly borrow the phone to look for her name, snatching the phone away. Hiroshi awkwardly scratched his own back in surprise. Raichi himself had turned away in shyness. And a few seconds later, Hara had gasped in surprise.


    ''''S-Suzuki-chan?''''


    ''''It seems... We are all in B."


    "Yeah!" Hiroshi cheered. He was happy to find out that they got in the same class.


    "Ha, my gamble ended up being worth it." He said with a grin on his face. Raichi perfectly understood what he meant. The gamble was the three of them ending up in the same class. And it seemed like the odds were in his favor today. Now, he could start the plan he had on his mind for a whole summer season. He was finally going to help out his best friend in establishing a successful social life.


    When he finally got his message across, Raichi couldn''t do anything about any plan Hiroshi could think of, the perfect unfoldable plan. Whenever Hiroshi went into scheming mode, his grin would show very visibly. And he wouldn''t even realize it. It was usually up to Raichi to intervene, but this time, the schemes were about him.


    Why is he so obsessed with the idea of me socializing?


    "So, what kind of scheme are you onto this time?"


    "Wh-what? Can you repeat that?" Hiroshi turns, right after shaking his head left and right to unfocus.


    "N-No. Nevermind."


    "Oh c''mon. Don''t back out on me!"


    "No. You missed your chance because you were too busy being skeptical."


    "Heh, fine then..."


    And Hiroshi was already off of the bookworm radar. He could finally let his guard down. But Raichi had gotten quite nervous. Because he knew there was more than just the student list awaiting him. It was almost time for the ceremony, and as a transfer student, he knew some people would try to talk to him, and get to know him better. But he considered just minding his business and doing the same thing he always does. But of course, Hiroshi had other plans. After all, Raichi knew what kind of shenanigans Hiroshi liked to pull off. Although it seemed like he didn''t have anything on his mind yet. Hara looked over at Raichi and saw how nervous he was. She looked like she felt bad about what she said earlier, even if both of them knew it was true.


    ''''R-Raichi-kun?''''


    ''''What is it?''''


    ''''You seem nervous.'''' She said concerningly. ''''Is it the ceremony?''''


    ''''Yeah. It is more or less from the anxiety that comes with talking to people.''''


    ''''Oh c''mon. You know we''re here if you need anything. Plus, Kimura-kun has high hopes for you to socialize.''''


    ''''Since when did I say I agree with him?''''


    ''''You kind of have to, dude.'''' Said Hiroshi, the overhearing cool dude he is. ''''If you don''t, I''ll just drag my good old friends into getting into your circle.''''


    ''''Please don''t. I can''t keep up with you sports and gossip nerds.'''' Raichi roasted back. Or at least that''s what Hiroshi thought. In reality, he was kinda begging for mercy. But Hiroshi, not receiving it so kindly, decided to jokingly call him out.


    ''''Says the bookworm.''''


    ''''Oh shut up.''''


    ''''Hehehe.''''


    When the chat was over, the bell rang and it was time to make their way to the ceremony. Raichi tried not to draw any attention to himself. Since he was a new face, he drew attention regardless. But eventually, they arrived at the line. Raichi, taking his place, was looking around to see what kind of profiles were in this school.


    There were some eyes on him. One of them, which Raichi also looked back at, was a light brown-haired girl, with glasses and a crown. She had a distant aura. It was a presence that said ''''Please don''t talk to me.'''', and yet she looked like your average introverted girl.


    Perhaps it was because a bookworm understood a bookworm best. They both looked at each other for a split second, both getting slightly mesmerized, before quickly turning away. Looking around once more, Raichi could see that all the glances in his direction were looking at her, too.


    Hiroshi and Hara were standing by Raichi''s side, and though they didn''t see Raichi''s expression, they could tell she looked at him the way she did. And to say Hiroshi was impressed would be an understatement, while Hara just stood in bewilderment.


    ''''Oh? It seems you''ve caught a certain gaze, dude.''''


    ''''What? A girl just looked back at me, mouth wide open. That''s my biggest social achievement.''''


    ''''You are... Acting like I''m not a girl.''''


    ''''I meant a total stranger you idiot.''''


    ''''I was a total stranger once.''''


    ''''S-Sorry.''''


    ''''I was kidding!''''


    ''''Hey, there was a reason why we''re impressed here!'''' Hiroshi said, and he looked serious for once. He clearly had something important to say, judging from his expression.


    ''''The person that looked at you like that was none other than the person we''ve told you about. You caught the gaze of the Acing Bookworm herself.'''' Hiroshi explained.


    The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.''''You''re meaning to tell me this Yamada-san you speak of was her?''''


    ''''Yup. I don''t know why she looked at you like she saw something spectacular, but she did.''''


    ''''But all I have worth looking at is my bookbag.''''


    ''''I bet that''s what she thought, too.''''


    ''''Well..'''' Raichi looked back. ''''Why do you guys see her like that?''''


    ''''Like..what?'''' Hiroshi asked in question.


    ''''From what you said, it seems the school treats her like some unapproachable deity.''''


    ''''True. But you see, she is the one being unapproachable. She is essentially you, except she has the popularity that comes with having good grades and beauty.'''' Hara explained in full detail, and now Raichi could assess the situation.


    Most girls with such popularity would have made use of it. Perhaps use it to hook themselves up with someone as popular as them, or control the room in a way that is to their advantage. When they enter the room, they change the feel entirely. That; was the aura that came with such popularity. But it seemed like this Yaori person didn''t seem to like it, and Raichi could understand that with just one look at her, and all that he had heard of her. To confirm his suspicion, Raichi thought of asking a question.


    ''''I see...'''' Raichi looked toward the two again. ''''I have a question.''''


    ''''What is it?''''


    ''''Does Yamada-san really just read books the entire time?''''


    ''''She does. She has a bookbag filled to the brim, perhaps she brings new ones every time.''''


    ''''And how much does she interact with the entire class?''''


    ''''Hmm..not much. Even during group projects, she tends to get permission to work alone.''''


    So much for being similar... I''m over here being forced to work alone.


    This had confirmed Raichi''s suspicion. Yaori did not in fact like all the attention she has and has gotten. He realized that they were similar in one way or another. Although it wasn''t the same way Hiroshi and Hara thought. They saw what was on the surface, that Raichi and Yaori were introverts.


    What Raichi saw was that they both had experience with having attention they didn''t like. Knowing she might not be comfortable with it, Raichi decided to not talk to her if possible, even if that required to somehow change Hiroshi''s mind. And well, seeing as to how many ideas Hiroshi might have about making him go out of his way to talk to people, he knew it was best to avoid it.


    ''''Well, maybe you could actually talk to her when we get to class,'''' Hiroshi said.


    ''''Don''t be ridiculous. You said it yourself she doesn''t like to talk. You also said it yourself that I do the same thing. Think of it like a magnet.''''


    ''''I will be honest... That was the most wrong thing you''ve said in a while.''''


    ''''H-Huh?''''


    ''''What? Are you implying an introvert doesn''t talk to an introvert?''''


    ''''I mean...!''''


    ''''C''mon. One way or another I''ll make you chat, okay?''''


    ''''Ugh..'''' Raichi sighed. He realized he really was in a bit of a pickle. It was only the beginning of the day, and Raichi had already gotten exhausted only after the ceremony alone. He couldn''t even imagine what the rest of the day would be like now that Hiroshi was on his tail. But regardless, they were already in the hallways.


    With Hiroshi and Hara''s guidance, he decided to have a little tour of where everything was, leaving the classroom for last. The tour had taken some nervousness off of him.


    After relieving a little, they had arrived at the gates of the classroom and found the seat he had been assigned like everyone else. He had eyes on him again, especially from the ones who had already sat down. The presence of a certain person didn''t seem to be present yet. That didn''t stop him from just sitting down and pulling out a book, digging another deeper hole that he fell in himself.


    After sitting down, it seemed like the three of them were quite near each other. He had ended up in the back of class, his back against the wall. Hiroshi was sitting right in front of him, and Hara was to Hiroshi''s right, creating a ninety-degree triangle shape. Raichi had already gotten into his flow state, getting absorbed into the book. Hiroshi and Hara also sat down.


    "Hey, dude. I have something to say."


    ...Raichi who was already in the zone wasn''t hearing him. Hiroshi became seemingly concerned.


    "Quick." Hiroshi tapped him. The tap woke him up.


    "Sorry. Zoned out."


    "What I had to say was, the other popular boys of the class might come and talk to you. To kind of... Explore your profile."


    "Interesting."


    "Well, do know if you aren''t at least a little interesting you''ll be looked down upon by them." He explained.


    "Ha, jokes on them I''ve been looked down upon my entire life."


    "I''m serious...!" said Hiroshi, actually looking serious. Once Raichi bothered to look at him, he could see that Hiroshi wasn''t lying. His joking expression had quickly taken on a worried composure. He began to panic, and in a hurry asked;


    ''''What do I do if they approach?''''


    ''''Act natural, and lie.''''


    ''''Which one??''''


    ''''I don''t know, don''t ask me!'''' The two of them said back and forth. And a group of three had come up to them, they were comparable to Hiroshi. Raichi felt like he was being towered over. Their presence was hard to tell. He couldn''t know their intentions from their face alone. But one of them began talking.


    ''''Why hello.''''


    ''''Um-hi.''''


    ''''You must be the new transfer student, Sato-kun, was it?''''


    ''''Yes, that would be me.''''


    ''''You can call me Takashi-kun. So, what do you think of your experience so far?'''' As Haruki kept talking, his intentions were becoming clearer. He seemed to be just welcoming him. Recognizing the sincerity, Raichi cooled his head. Hiroshi had gotten confused as to the kind approach Haruki had taken.


    ''''My... Experience you say?'''' Raichi said thoughtfully.


    ''''Yeah. What do you think?''''


    ''''Well, nothing is worse than what I had going on before, so I''d say it''s better now that I am with the only two friends I have.''''


    ''''I... I see. Who are these two friends of yours?''''


    ''''Hiroshi-kun and Hara-chan sitting right over there.'''' After Raichi said that, Haruki turned towards Hiroshi and Hara. Once he realized who they were, he put on a sweet smile. Now, even Hiroshi could tell his intentions, so he too calmed down a little.


    ''''Say, you two know each other Kimura-kun?''''


    ''''Yeah. Since middle school actually.''''


    ''''That''s great. I''m happy to know someone can show Sato-kun around.'''' Haruki said, reassuring Hiroshi. As Raichi had thought, people like him knew how to control the room and act accordingly. Or maybe it was just something someone like him couldn''t comprehend. Though it seemed like the conversation wasn''t done yet.


    ''''Say, how about I raise that friend ratio of yours to three?''''


    ''''Um... That''s sudden, but... I wouldn''t mind it.''''


    ''''Alright then, consider me a friend of yours. Feel free to talk to me.'''' Haruki said like it was nothing. His wording had Raichi flabbergasted. The way he said it so nonchalantly and casually, Raichi could never imagine himself chatting like that with people he didn''t know. And before he could say anything, the three of them had already left. Hiroshi and Raichi took a second and looked at each other. Their faces very visibly said ''What just happened?'' Hara who had watched everything unfold, laughed it off.


    ''''Heheheh!''''


    ''''That must have been fun to watch.''''


    ''''It was. Congrats on getting your ''friend ratio'' up a notch.''''


    ''''He didn''t need such fancy wording, but I get he was trying to be approachable. He could tell I was hard to approach.''''


    ''''If you could tell how hard to approach you are, I feel like the self-awareness should be put to use,y''know?'''' Hara remarked.


    ''''Ha, shut up.''''


    ''''Speaking of being aware...'''' Hiroshi cut in. He looked around anxiously. It seemed like he was looking around to see who was there and who wasn''t. Raichi who could tell something was off decided to speak up.


    ''''You doing okay?''''


    ''''I think I remembered something important. One second.'''' He raised his finger in front of Raichi''s face, requesting a moment. Then, he slowly approached the list with all the assigned names and desks. When he saw what he had thought he saw, his heart skipped a beat. Afterward, he turned around and looked at Raichi with a smirk. Raichi knew it was a face that Hiroshi would make when he knew something he didn''t. When he finally came back over, the only thing Raichi could expect was some sort of news, but what?


    ''''Hey, dude. I have a very big thing to say. Try not to explode.''''


    ''''When have I ever been mindblown by whatever you have to say, Hiroshi-kun?'''' Raichi said confidently.


    ''''Yeah, that''s because you can read my mind with relative ease. But I bet you can''t tell what I''m about to say.''''


    ''''Y''know what, it is true that I don''t know what you have in mind, but it won''t surprise me.''''


    ''''Oh yeah? Well, you see the empty seat to your left?''''


    ''''Yeah, what about it?''''


    ''''You see, the very person sitting there is Yamada-san herself.''''

 Volume 1; Chapter 3; The Wingman Has A Thing To Say

    Interesting...Yamada-san is sitting right next to me..? And why does Hiroshi-kun think I should know this?


    Truth be told, Raichi didn''t care about who sat where. He may have gotten information about Yaori even without asking for it, but even so, that just means he knew it was best not to approach her. He knew how much he didn''t like talking to people himself, so if the two of them were as similar as they say, then an awkward conversation was bound to take place.


    And the future self-proclaimed wingman wanted to mess with his buddy a little, trying to get some words out of him. And so, Hiroshi was expectantly looking at Raichi. After staring for a solid three seconds, he had enough.


    ''''Are you waiting for something..?''''


    ''''Of course, I am. That should be obvious.''''


    ''''Then what?''''


    ''''Your opinion, that is.''''


    ''''I see..'''' Raichi paused. He quickly took a deep breath and let go of his book. He was ready to declare something that Hiroshi should have expected.


    ''''I''ll be honest...I don''t care too much. You know me.''''


    ''''Wh-What?'''' said Hiroshi. "He had assumed that Raichi was the type of person who would obediently follow orders without question. However, he failed to realize that someone who always felt like they didn''t belong would eventually become accustomed to feeling that way. Raichi''s past experiences had molded him into the distant and unemotional person he is today.


    "B-But aren''t you at least a little bit curious?"


    "Maybe I am, maybe I am not. But even if I were to have such curiosity, I wouldn''t need to act upon it." Raichi stated. "Why do you want to rope me along so much anyway?"


    "Well, because I want you to have an actual social life here now that you''ve finally transferred!"


    "I will socialize if I feel like it."


    "Seriously..?" Hiroshi said, exasperated.


    After a few minutes had passed, Raichi felt a strong presence. Though he didn''t bother batting an eye, a certain bookworm had entered the classroom. She was ignoring the eyes on her, wanting to sit down. She quickly looked around to where she was assigned to sit, grabbing her seat and putting it where it was supposed to be.


    Standing where he was, it was that easy to tell who the entire room had their attention on.


    Raichi couldn''t help but feel bad for this person he hadn''t even met. Even without knowing her, the information he had gotten from gossip alone had already explained what kind of person she was, and that''s what was so scary about it. But even he couldn''t help but also look. The truth was that it was more of a glance of concern.


    But knowing the truth was more than enough. He didn''t need to act upon it. And so he ignored everything going around.


    ''''Good morning Yamada-san!'''' said Hara once she had sat down.


    ''''Morning, Suzuki-chan.'''' She replied in a monotone voice. She quickly settled down and pulled out a book from her book bag. Despite saying he would ignore everything, Raichi couldn''t help but eavesdrop. However in the end he decided to just plop his head into his arms, and sleep through the day. When he lifted his head, to his disappointment he would find himself awoken from the bell ringing before noon.


    After looking around, Raichi could see someone approaching him. It was Haruki, his most recent ''friend''. His level-headed and calm expression was easy to recognize even amid a crowd.


    ''''Hey, Sato-kun.'''' Haruki greeted him.


    ''''Um, hello.''''


    ''''You slept through three breaks and four lessons. Impressive sleep-schedule.''''


    ''''Heh, it is the only way to get through the day quickly.''''


    ''''Is... Your whole aim to get the day done?'''' He questioned.


    ''''Well, yeah... I''ve never really liked being in school all that much.''''


    ''''Y''know..some people are afraid of the passage of time, while you''re over here sleeping so that it gets by for you. Won''t you regret it?'''' Haruki said in a concerned tone. He was worried about how Raichi was. In all honesty, his sleepy state was looking miserable.


    ''''I don''t... Know.''''


    ''''Also judging by all this, I hope you don''t oversleep.''''


    ''''The only extra rest I get is at school. My sleep schedule is fine, okay?''''


    ''''Okay...What else do you do to spend the time during school?'''' Haruki asked. Though confused, Raichi smiled back.


    ''''I read books mostly. Just felt exhausted today..*yawn* ''''


    ''''Did something happen?''''


    ''''A lot of things happened. Not that they''re anything to be concerned of, so don''t worry.'''' Raichi reassured him. ''''For short, turns out my family''s reason for moving here was none other than Hiroshi-kun standing right there,'''' Raichi said while looking over at Hiroshi.


    ''''Hey, don''t bring me into this...!''''


    ''''Oh?'''' Haruki was impressed. ''''I didn''t know you had a thing for talking with your friends'' parents, Kimura-kun.'''' He said jokingly.


    ''''I did it for him, okay? I wanted to get him out of that hellhole that was his class.''''


    ''''You both seem to think that way about Sato-kun''s past school life. Is this something I shouldn''t pry?''''


    Calling his class a hellhole was a bit of an exaggeration, but it was accurate to say he didn''t enjoy it. Raichi felt he should not burden anybody with the story, so he wanted to hide it. Being forced into a position he never wanted wasn''t all that enjoyable.


    It wasn''t bullying per se, but all his efforts to fit in had failed, and he felt cold and distant. And unintentionally, he had become the nobody guy. But he found two friends from the other classes before the school year ended, Hiroshi and Hara.


    But sadly, they ended up separated in different schools for a year. However, this transfer brought them back together. And especially Hiroshi knew of these past events. Raichi felt that the best decision was to not say anything further about it.


    ''''I don''t want to do anything that''ll ruin the mood, so if it is okay with you, I''d rather have this topic closed.''''


    ''''Fine, fine. Although, you need a breather.'''' Haruki said. It was true. All of that chat and sleep probably exhausted him, since this rest he had wasn''t technically resting.


    ''''Y''know what, you''re right.''''


    ''''So Kimura-kun... You coming along?''''


    ''''Uh, sure, why not.''''


    While walking through the garden, the three had drinks on their hands, sipping them at different times, and having a chat. Raichi had put on a smile for once. If he were, to be honest, he was very much enjoying the chat. And Hiroshi could see everything through and through. From his perspective, witnessing this guy finally make another friend made him very happy. But in Hiroshi fashion, he had started grinning again. Haruki, who didn''t know his antics, was a little spooked. He let out a worried chuckle.


    Raichi, who had finally taken notice of what his buddy was doing, intervened.


    "Hiroshi-kun...!" Raichi threw a soft punch on his shoulder. As a reaction, Haruki made a slightly concerned whimper. But it seemed like Hiroshi didn''t react.


    "Y-You okay??"


    "I-I''ll be fine. He threw a soft punch on purpose."


    "I did. This is sometimes the only way to get you out of this phase." Raichi said confidently.


    Raichi felt a sense of gratitude for Haruki''s genuine concern for him. Despite his initial reservations about opening up to others, he couldn''t deny that having someone like Haruki around made him feel a little less alone. Sadly, their break had quickly come to a halt as they had to get back to class. Raichi was visibly disappointed by the turn of events.


    As the day went by, Raichi continued his habit of zoning in and out. Mostly, he had been reading books. However, during classes such as Math, he couldn''t focus on his book, so sleeping was a preferred option. The end of the day slowly reared its head. But even so, Raichi could not help his curiosity and occasionally looked over at Yaori''s desk, wondering what she thought of everything. After all, he knew a lot of things already. But again, he had no desire to approach, as disappointing as it is for his buddy old pal Hiroshi.


    While in the last class, Raichi had slowly packed up, waiting for the bell. Because of that, he had put away his belongings and was listening to what remained of the class. But then-- suddenly -- Hiroshi had a little jump. Raichi could hear the sounds of the desk ahead of him as he jumped. As if he was zoned out and finally had left the zone. Raichi was sure that a lightbulb had just been lit in his friend''s head. It seemed like he was up to even more schemes. So Raichi could only worry about just what that might be. Hiroshi peeked his little head backward, looking at Raichi.


    The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon."Hey dude, would you mind going somewhere with me after school ends?"


    "Uh, what?"


    "You heard me, c''mon!"


    "I guess I can...but why?"


    "You''ll see."


    As they were talking, Hara, who had accidentally eavesdropped couldn''t help but be curious about this. And why wasn''t she invited, she thought. She decided that it would be best to follow and see what they might get up to, and where they''ll go. Raichi had never talked about his other best friend with any of the two. Coincidentally, they had known each other before and were friendly due to being classmates. But still, Hara and Hiroshi weren''t all that close. She thought it might be rude to eavesdrop again, but curiosity took over.


    The bell had rung, and the two friends did as they had planned, and headed for the lockers. On their way, Hara was stealthily following them. She was occasionally peeking her head to glance towards them. Once they had done what they needed to do near the lockers, they made their way towards their destination.


    From what Hara could observe, it seemed like Raichi was''nt told where they were going, since it seemed like he was following Hiroshi. Hara quickly had to hide. Hiroshi sometimes turned towards Raichi, walking backward, and during that moment, Hara knew she could get spotted, if not careful.


    And that was the furthest she could go. Hara had to hide behind the door. When they made it to the top floor stairs, the realization hit Hara. They were headed for the rooftop. And she knew that these occasions were reserved for confessions and such. What good reason would Hiroshi have for taking him up there?


    No way...


    It was safe to assume that it was for something private. Which Hara had felt guilty about eavesdropping to. But, if curiosity takes over, you can''t help but give in to it, she thought.


    And so, the moment of truth had begun, the two of them were right next to each other, looking down at the view of the garden. Of course, the silence soon broke. There wasn''t much to do up there, after all.


    ''''So, Raichi-kun. You know why I brought you here?'''' Hiroshi said calmly.


    ''''I don''t know... But it is clear you do.''''''


    ''''Alright. Here goes nothing.''''


    ''''Wh-What...?'''' Said the eavesdropper.


    Hiroshi had taken a deep breath. It was as if this was something very special. Raichi thought this must have been one heck of a scheme he made if he needed to take a moment to spit it out. He knew of his confidence.


    ''''I have... A proposition.''''


    ''''Uh...A proposition...?


    ''''Proposition...?'''''' -- ''''Oh!'''' Hara had noticed that she was making some noise, so she quickly covered her mouth. But she quickly got back into position. She was eagerly listening to their ongoing conversation, watching with passion.


    ''''Hmm... How do I put this... Give me a moment.'''' He quickly turned his back to Raichi, leaving him in a fit of confusion. Now that was the moment of rest that Hara needed in such a high-stress moment.


    ''''Hello.'''' -- ''''Nngh!'''' Her mouth was quickly shut by someone else''s hand.


    ''''Shh. Sorry for the sudden contact, but you need to lower your voice down if you want to be a professional spy.'''' The boy had whispered into her ear and quickly lowered his hand. This sudden moment had made Hara''s face turn pink. As embarrassed as she was, she quickly got aggressive. But she managed to keep her composure and say everything she had to say in a whispering tone.


    ''''T-Takahashi-kun?!''''


    ''''Yes Suzuki-chan. It is me.''''


    ''''You idiot! You''re telling me to stay quiet right after jump scaring me!?'''' She said in an aggressive whisper.


    ''''Heheh. I could not help but not disturb your quest fueled by curiosity. You looked rather invested.'''' Haruki said.


    ''''I guess that''s true-'''' Her sentence was quickly cut short by Hiroshi talking once more. It seemed like he had finally found a way to put his ''proposition'' into words. Haruki had gotten invested now as well. He decided to settle right next to Hara. Their faces were quite close, looking through the only tiny space that was available on the door without being spotted.


    Haruki, who was fully intent on eavesdropping, didn''t notice just how close they were standing. But Hara who had already lost her focus, immediately took attention to it. Once she noticed it, her face quickly turned pink. But she had to focus on her two friends. She could''nt be distracted.


    "I have an enticing proposition, Raichi-kun."


    ''''And that would be...?"


    "I would like to become your official wingman."


    "A wingman?"


    "Wingman??" Hara said.


    "For who, though?" Haruki added. Raichi was even more confused. It is not like he had told him that he liked someone. Who would he even get hooked up with? Either way, it would be someone new, knowing Raichi''s small and tightly shut friend circle.


    "Um, I am not searching for any relationships right now, Hiroshi-kun."


    "You misunderstood me," Hiroshi responded. "I am going to be your...wingman to the world. Officially."


    ''''Huh?"


    "What does that mean?" The two said dumbfounded. Hiroshi''s choice of words was confusing. And this didn''t help Hara and Haruki who were still nervously watching. Hara had started biting her nails out of habit. Her munching could be heard in the silence behind the door.


    "So, what you''re saying is... You would like to make your goal of making me socialize into a wingman job?" Raichi said. Once he had pointed it out, Hara and Haruki understood just what Hiroshi meant a little more.


    Now, Hara and Haruki were curious. Would Raichi take him on his offer, they thought. As Hiroshi had put it, it really was an enticing offer. From their perspective, it was a perfect decision.


    "You wouldn''t... Lead me astray, would you?" Raichi had doubts.


    "Of course not! Don''t you consider me one of your two closest friends?" Hiroshi sounded distraught. He really didn''t want to believe that Raichi had doubts about him.


    "I... Do."


    "And I, want to help you. As your friend."


    "But what exactly will you do?"


    "Help you make friends of course. It''s not like I am going to get you a girlfriend or anything." Hiroshi reassured his doubts.


    ''''Oh, good."


    "Although if you wanted me to...I could very easily do so."


    "Well then... I accept your offer. Though, what do you mean you could easily do so?"


    "What do you think I mean? I could probably convince any of our acquaintances to talk to you. Maybe even... Yamada-san."


    "Y-Yamada-san...?" Raichi was taken aback.


    "Huh, Kimura-kun sure knows how to negotiate." Haruki thought. It was true. Through his confidence and easy-going attitude, he knew how to sweet-talk people, as with the things his traits provided. And suddenly-


    "Achoo!" Hara had sneezed. Looks like their cover had been blown, as Hiroshi and Raichi quickly walked over. Opening the door, and seeing the two eavesdroppers.


    ''''Uhh... Hey there!" Hara said.


    "Why hello, you two," Haruki added.


    "What did you hear...?" Raichi glared. He was quite intimidating. Hara and Haruki were surprised to suddenly see his cold side.


    "N-Nothing!" Her words were quickly cut off by Haruki.


    "We heard your whole wingman schtick." Haruki spat out immediately.


    "Hey!"


    "What? It''s better to be honest than anything."


    "Seriously..."


    Raichi felt bad about glaring at them just now, although he really didn''t want them to talk about him. He had gotten worried, and he had the right to feel so.


    "Don''t worry though. We won''t say a word if that is what you ask for." Haruki reassured him.


    "Wait, seriously?" Raichi blinked in surprise. "You''re serious, right?"


    "Of course. What, you think I would tell everyone in an attempt to embarrass you?"


    "That... Has happened to me once, so..."


    "Oh...I think I get the gist of your reasons for moving here." Haruki said with a face that showed he very much understood.


    "Do you?"


    "I do. But rest assured, we won''t say anything. Right, Suzuki-chan?" Haruki softly bumped Hara with his elbow, expecting a response.


    "You know I wouldn''t do something like that to Raichi-kun."


    "A wingman that isn''t secret is not a wingman after all."

 Volume 1; Chapter 4; Conversing With The Bookworm

    Raichi who had just woken up, found himself looking at the mirror in his room. They say you shouldn''t look in the mirror for so long, yet here he was, zoned out, looking at the mirror. Wondering to himself.


    Maybe this wingman thing isn''t gonna be so bad...


    He didn''t have a particular goal in mind. It was that he was simply going to socialize with Hiroshi''s help. He thought it''d be best to leave it all up to Hiroshi since he always knows exactly what he is doing.


    Although he wasn''t so sure about how helpful this experience would be, he was willing to take his chances and see the results.


    Arriving at the classroom, Raichi quickly sat down on the lonesome chair, along with Hiroshi and Hara. There never was anything too eventful happening around him, and the only sensical thing to do in a moment like this for him was to bring out one of his books and start reading.


    Even though they had walked here together, Hiroshi decided to say good morning, and they exchanged a greeting. The class seemed unusually quiet. The ominous silence had left Raichi in a fit of confusion.


    So weird...


    He knew mornings were moody, but not like this. Perhaps it was because the weather was rather cloudy today, and it seemed like it was going to rain. Raichi felt affected a little too. Even Hiroshi had toned his enthusiasm down.


    And if even Hiroshi was feeling down, he knew something was off. Some were keeping their heads down, and some had a visible annoyance on their faces. While reading his book, Raichi saw someone enter the classroom from the corner of his vision.


    The black-haired boy he had only started trusting days ago. Yet somehow, within that timespan, Haruki''s assertive kindness had worked very well.


    His approach was direct as if he was demanding to be friends with him. It was weird, but if the fact that he had good intentions remained, then it didn''t matter. He thought he ought to learn from this.


    Perhaps there was a lesson to be learned through this chat and could be used to his advantage. He thought that maybe this could even work on Hiroshi. Haruki had gone up to him.


    "Morning, Sato-kun."


    "Good morning, Takahashi-kun."


    "Everyone seems down in mood. You noticed it too right?" Haruki asked.


    "Yeah. Even Hiroshi-kun has been feeling slightly down..."


    "Hehe, he doesn''t show it, but he does get down in mood often." Raichi had ended up giving him a confused stare.


    ''''Does he? He was always so cheerfully near me. I''ve rarely seen him like this.'''' He interjected.


    ''''Really? In class, even with his reputation, he does sometimes just wander off on his own.''''


    ''''... Interesting.''''


    ''''Well, I think I''ll sit down. Sorry to keep it so short.'''' Said Haruki, as he waved goodbye. Afterwards, Raichi decided to just stand there. He stood silently, not uttering a single word, and not doing anything in particular.


    In the end, though, the boredom would catch up to him, so he had to bring out a book. It was his favourite one he had read many times over throughout his childhood. He thought it''d be worth bringing, thinking the author''s official signed book would bring him good fortune today.


    But suddenly -- Raichi felt the door open once more. This time was different, it wasn''t anyone he knew obviously, but he had an idea as to who they might be. The Acing Bookworm, as they called her, had entered the classroom. Once she had taken a step inside, without any hesitation, walked right to her seat, seemingly unaffected by everyone''s sombre mood. While everything was happening, he had put away the book, unable to concentrate on how to pass the time.


    The classes were going on as usual, and they had a chance to take a breather. He had been relieved since he was starting to get a little moody as the day went along. But then, something had caught his attention.


    He noticed something that looked like the book he had read before near Yaori''s desk. He took another peak in her direction and realized that she was reading the same book. Raichi was very surprised by Yaori''s taste in books. Seeing his favourite book in the hands of another bookworm must have been exciting for him. He did carry that book in his bag every day.


    Heh, good taste I must say. Although...


    Raichi felt the need to say something, to chat. He never really felt the urge for social interaction like this before. He always had no interest in talking with people he hadn''t met before. Although, if he is the one who feels like approaching, his trust doesn''t matter all that much. He knew he overthought a lot of things, and yet some thoughts are just worth thinking over.


    He wondered what small thing would make him stand out from all the others whom Yaori had always avoided. He began thinking about it. After scrolling through his brain for a few ideas, he found something that might just work.


    One of the only things that can catch the attention of a bookworm similar to him. And that was a discussion about books. But first, he had to get a grasp on what Yaori had thought of the book. And to do so, he took action.


    ''''Um- Y-Yamada-san?'''' He slowly approached Yaori, leaning from his desk.


    ''''Hmm?'''' Yaori took her eyes off her book and glanced at Raichi. ''''Oh- S-Sato-kun, was it?''''


    ''''Y-Yeah, I... I had a question about the book you were reading.''''


    ''''Oh, this...?'''' She looked back at the book in her hands. ''''It is one of my favourite books, if not my favourite.''''


    ''''You like it?''''


    ''''I-I do. It is very deep. I feel... Connected to it.''''


    ''''It is quite lengthy.''''


    ''''Yeah... I love stories like this. It feels like the writer has inserted themselves into the book. It might come off as... Selfish or something, but it feels personal, and it makes me feel like relating to it.''''


    ''''I... Feel the same way.''''


    ''''Though... Sorry for turning the conversation a little too deep... I think I''ll get back to reading.'''' Yaori''s words were quickly cut off by Raichi.


    ''''W-Wait! I have something to show you.'''' Raichi quickly started searching through his bookbag.


    While looking through it, Yaori had taken a good look at his bag, looking intrigued. Her face lit up for a second. She saw all sorts of books through what little space she could see while Raichi was looking for whatever he was searching for.


    ''''Here.'''' He put his hand out with the book he had brought out. It was the book he had been reading earlier, his favourite. Sure he may have liked it, but there was an even better reason as to why he loved it.


    ''''Oh... It''s the same book.''''


    ''''Yeah. I also really love the book, too. It''s my favourite book.''''


    ''''Feels good to see someone who likes this writer''s work... I love them. They deserve every ounce of support they get.'''' Yaori said genuinely with a gentle smile. Raichi had been caught off guard with a sudden cute smile. But he quickly brushed it off.


    ''''I... agree, but there is something else. A different reason as to why I love it.'''' Raichi interjected.


    ''''Wh-What is it?'''' Yaori asked curiously.


    ''''Here, take it and look at the first page.'''' Raichi requested, and Yaori did as told, but she looked spectical.


    She lifted her hand and slowly traced the page. Looking at the top left corner of said page, she saw something very interesting. Her eyes immediately lit up at the sight. It was the author''s sign. When he was little, Raichi had gone to a convention with his mother. And there, he had seen the rising author, still trying to rise through the ranks by selling there.


    He had already known about them and bought a copy. He knew this was the best chance to get it signed somehow, so he had convinced his mother to get in the line.


    And there, seeing little Raichi already with a copy, the author had signed it per his request. It wasn''t a signing booth or anything like it. This was something personal he had gotten the author to do, so it had personal value to him.


    ''''N-No way...!'''' Yaori said with a bright expression.


    ''''Yep. I still remember that day. The day I had gotten this signed... It was the best moment of my life yet.''''


    ''''It must feel great...''''


    ''''It does.''''


    He smiled down at his book. But looking back towards Yaori, he could see a hint of sorrow. He could tell Yaori would have liked to have one of her own like this. He didn''t mean to show off or something along those lines.


    He just thought it might be the only way to somehow get noticed. Not meaning to ruin her mood like this, Raichi had to quickly think of a solution.


    Meanwhile, Hiroshi and Haruki were witnessing everything going on further away. Hiroshi had a confident smirk on his face. He had read his friend like a book.


    He knew Raichi would eventually try and talk to Yaori. He knew of their alike nature and knew it would be the common ground for them. The thing that differentiated Raichi from everyone else was his introverted nature. Meaning that getting along would be a lot easier.


    And best of all, he had done all of it of his own will. Hiroshi''s teasing had failed. This was something Raichi had done himself. But in a way, the teasing was the catalyst.


    "Wow Kimura-kun, what have you done to have accomplished something like this?" Haruki wondered.


    "Nothing. This is something he did himself. I was just the ladder."


    "You''re one interesting person, Kimura-kun." He complimented.


    "Uh, thanks. But don''t distract us, we gotta keep listening!"


    "If you say so."


    Raichi had once again started looking through his mind for solutions. He knew he might regret it, but he didn''t have the heart to leave someone sad. It was his fault that she had gotten this way, so he wanted to better himself. Once he decided to go along with it, he spoke up.


    "Say, I do have an idea."


    "Wh-What is it?"


    ''''You can have it if you''d like to," Raichi said. "I know you would like it."


    "Wait, what?" Yaori blinked dramatically and backed away slightly in response.


    "But... I thought this was your favourite book..."


    "It still is. The sign is just a bonus. I''ve read it many times, so it is okay.''''


    ''''A-Are you sure? But you said you felt the same way about the book and stuff... I can tell it makes you very happy.''''


    ''''Yeah. You can have it...'''' Oh no. Oh crap.


    Raichi had realised something. After reading it for the longest time, he highlighted his favourite parts with a highlighter and left personal notes that revealed a lot about his personal life. And if those notes were read by someone other than him, it would very much be embarrassing.


    He couldn''t decide whether he should be straightforward and tell her about the notes, or hide them. But he thought that if she was anything like him, she was bound to pick the book up again like he does, and eventually see the notes. After considering the options, the former might turn out to be the better choice. But before he could proceed...


    ''''Um- Sato-kun...'''' She said with an adorable and serious face.


    ''''Yeah, what is it?''''


    ''''I feel that it is unfair of me to take this book from you like this. I''d like for you to at least have mine.''''


    Raichi, who hadn''t expected this development, looked back in expectance.


    ''''I have also had this for a long time, but that is okay. I can''t afford to not pay back this kindness.'''' She insisted, putting her clenched hands in front of her chest.


    ''''I know you feel like that, but... Do know, you don''t have a responsibility to do so.''''


    ''''No, please just take it!'''' She bashfully handed him the book. So he had no choice but to take it.


    Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.''''Oh, O-Okay... Thank you.'''' He said, scratching his back in the habit.


    ''''I feel like I should be the one saying that...''''


    "No need to worry," said Raichi as he was about to return to his seat. Suddenly, he felt Yaori grabbing onto the hem of his uniform, indicating that she had something important to say. She looked embarrassed and blushing while speaking. "Um, I do have something important to say," Yaori said.


    Raichi asked, "Is something wrong?"


    Yaori hesitated before continuing, "You see, the book of mine had a lot of personal notes in it..." Raichi was surprised to hear this coming from Yaori''s mouth instead of his own. He had almost forgotten to tell her about having personal notes in his book. It was interesting to have something like this in common. Without realizing it, he snickered a little. Yaori saw it and quickly turned her back, pouting and asking, "What are you laughing at...?"


    Raichi apologized and said, "I''m sorry. I must have been laughing at myself." When Yaori asked for clarification, Raichi admitted, "I had the same thing to say. I also have personal notes in my book."


    Yaori was surprised and asked, "Um, what kind of personal notes do you have in there?"


    "The personal kind," Raichi said bashfully. "I was planning on addressing it before you wanted to give me yours."


    Yaori smiled sweetly and said, "Hehe. Same here..."


    The conversation was quickly halted by the ring of the bell. So the conversation had come to an abrupt and awkward end. But overall, it ended on a sweet note and Raichi believed this to be a great success. He thought he might''ve managed to make a breakthrough in his attempts at socializing. Hiroshi could only watch in excitement. While he was sitting there, Hara came around to find Hiroshi and Haruki a lot more excited than usual. Confused, she had confronted them.


    "I feel like I came across something I shouldn''t..." Hara said.


    "Well, you came across something you wouldn''t."


    "What is the reason behind your expression right now? I''m curious." She asked.


    "Heh. Raichi-kun willingly spoke with Yamada-san." He said, smirking all the while.


    "Wait really?" Hara stood back in astonishment.


    She hadn''t believed in Hiroshi''s teasing. She thought it also didn''t make a difference whether Raichi was trying to be social or not. He was still one of her friends. Possibly the closest she ever had. As long as they were close, it did not matter to her. She knew she liked to shoot that fact in his face, but in the end, it was all just jokes. Looking at her expression, Haruki could see a faint of jealousy. And it was showing.


    "Oh~? Is there something you also wish to say, Suzuki-chan?" Haruki teased, wagging his finger.


    "N-No..."


    "Well, okay then."


    "Hehe." Hiroshi chuckled. "Why not go approach him?"


    "Sure. I am down."


    "Although, Yamada-san is still there, remember? Let''s save this for the end of the day."


    The team had scattered for the remainder of the day. As Raichi was packing up his bag again, Hiroshi turned around toward him with a smirk on his face. And Hara had been looking at their general direction, visibly annoyed. Knowing exactly what he was about to say.


    She also glanced towards Haruki, who had the same cool-headed face. She then glanced towards Yaori, who was usually engrossed in reading, she could see a look of expectation and no book in her hand.


    Maybe she was waiting for something or even someone. Although, there was no telling what was going to happen. As the bell rang, the two boys rushed up to him.


    When they had come over, Hara could see that Yaori shook for a second. Then, with a saddened expression on her face, she slowly walked away and left.


    Hara looked at Yaori and saw her look back. But it was as if Yaori''s eyes were looking through her. Because they weren''t looking at Hara. They were looking at Raichi.


    Hara perfectly understood just what Yaori had been waiting for. However, to her dismay, the two friends had swarmed the bookworm she had just wanted to speak to. Technically speaking, she knew that this was considered speaking behind her back, whether it was positive, neutral, or negative.


    Hara had felt very bad for her. But before she could even say anything, Yaori had already left. Seeing that there is nothing else she can do, she also joins the rest of the group, who eventually settle on walking home together.


    <hr>


    After leaving the gates of the school, Hiroshi immediately opened up the subject, leaving no room for hesitation.


    ''''Well... Raichi-kun, don''t you have something very exciting to tell us?''''


    ''''Whatever do you mean?'''' Raichi asked genuinely, not realising what he was asking.


    ''''Hey, stop acting aloof already... We witnessed it ourselves, y''know?'''' Hiroshi said while tapping his shoulder, signalling him to tell the truth.


    ''''Witnessed what...?'''' Raichi asked once more. He took a second to think it over. ''''Oh! You mean my talk with Yamada-san?''''


    ''''Of course, that''s what I meant you idiot! It''s not like you have anything else going on in your life...'''' Hiroshi teased. ''''Hey!'''' Raichi said, feeling offended by the callout.


    ''''Since when were you so interested anyway? I was gonna tell you eventually.''''


    ''''Eventually? Eventually when?'''' Haruki added.


    If Raichi were to be honest, he was actually thinking of telling them the truth right about now. But being immediately surrounded by his friends had distracted him. It''s not like his wingman needs to know every major social achievement he has done. Plus, he thought that overthinking about them could ruin the moment. After all, a normal conversation is something everyone does. There wasn''t necessarily anything to think about.


    ''''But... Why is having a normal conversation something that is so exciting for you?'''' Raichi interjected.


    ''''Well, it is more or less about the fact that she talked like this with you of all people, no offence,'''' Haruki said. ''''Because she does not have such a deep conversation with anybody. Everyone thought she hated small talk.''''


    ''''She thoroughly enjoyed that conversation if you ask me,'''' Hiroshi added.


    Raichi, scratching his head, said,


    ''''Well, I guess that is true. She had a genuine smile for a second.''''


    ''''Wait really?'''' Hara stood in shock. Haruki reassuring her said,


    ''''Oh yeah you didn''t witness it with us, did you Suzuki-chan?''''


    ''''Now you get what we meant, right?'''' Hiroshi asked.


    ''''I think I do...''''


    Since I managed to do something like this on my pretty much first attempt at socialising here, it seems that it is very impressive to the likes of Takahashi-kun and Hiroshi-kun...


    While the two boys were busy teasing, Hara was looking down at the ground in regret, recalling back to what happened. She did not doubt that Yaori would eventually talk with him again. But she had feared that Yaori might sour away from Raichi if he kept hanging out with them as often as he seemed to. And she wanted them both to be happy.


    ''''Hey, bookworm. You should talk to Yamada-san again.'''' She bursted, not able to keep her inner thoughts inside.


    ''''Of course I will, but why are you the one to tell me that?'''' Raichi asked.


    ''''I just... Felt like it.'''' She said disappointed. Hiroshi and Haruki looked back at her in confusion.


    Why would she insist on telling me that...? Does she know something I don''t?


    The only thing Raichi was capable of right now was to brush it off. And one by one, the group had scattered to their homes. Until it was only Hara and Raichi left. Raichi turned around toward Hara, expecting her to say goodbye. But to his surprise,


    ''''Hey, bookworm...?''''


    ''''Uh, yeah?''''


    ''''I will text you about something tonight,'''' Hara said. ''''But... You''ll only know what it is once I say so.''''


    ''I... Was just about to ask what it is, but...'''' Raichi paused. ''''Why not say it to my face right now?'''' He wondered. He knew Hara wouldn''t hide almost anything from him. He knew her to be an honest, straightforward person.


    Even the most deepest of topics and discussions, she would vent them to him. He thought back to the time when she had been dumped by someone. She had come right up to him, crying. For some reason, his stoicness was comforting for her. They were rather intimate. Because that stoic face spoke one thing. It was that he was willing to be there and listen, as he is willing to do so right now.


    <hr>


    ''''R-Raichi-kun!'' Said little Hara, sobbing on Raichi''s thighs. Her voice was muffled by her mouth shut. He was sitting with his legs crossed, on the ground in his room. He didn''t seem emotionless, and through the stoic face, care was being shown.


    ''''It is okay, just let it out.'''' He said, his hand on her head, reassuring her.


    ''''Th-Thank you... Raichi-kun.'''' She took another moment as she gulped. ''''I-I-!''''


    ''''No need to thank me.''''


    ''''...W-Would you mind if we... Played some more games today?'''' She said, wiping her tears off. She quickly stood back up.


    ''''Of course. C''mon, y''know where the controller is.''''


    Hara frowned in response. Letting go of her hand in front of her chest, said,


    ''''I can''t... Bear to say it right now.''''


    ''''Um- Okay then...'''' Raichi took a step back. ''''See you.''''


    ''''See you...''''


    <hr>


    Raichi could hear the clock ticking in his room, quietly reading his book as he always does, tired from all the events that day.


    I... I wonder when she is going to text me...


    Raichi quickly turned his attention to the buzzing sound coming from his phone. It was a notification. A message from someone. Hara had done as she had said and texted him.


    ''''Hey Raichi-kun.''''


    ''''Hello, I am assuming you are going to say what you were planning to.''''


    ''''Yes. It is about Yamada-san.''''


    Y-Yamada-san...? What could she possibly say about her?


    Raichi took a bite out of the cookie plate he had beside him, cleaned his hands with a tissue and grabbed his phone again.


    ''''Earlier today when the bell rang, and how Kimura-kun and Takahashi-kun came up to you.''''


    ''''Yeah, what about them?''''


    ''''When they approached you,'''' Hara added, ''''It caused you to ignore someone.''''


    ''''I... I ignored Yamada-san?'''' Raichi started worrying. What did she think of him after this? What can he do? He thought he might start overthinking again. After all, almost nobody took him seriously. But maybe now, it was an exception.


    ''''Well, that isn''t to say it was your fault. But if those two didn''t approach you, Yamada-san had at least something to say to you.''''


    Raichi understood the mistake he had made. And now, he would guarantee it wouldn''t cause any more issues. He always overthought about his reputation, but as he knew, it was an exception.


    ''''I sincerely thank you for telling this to me.''''


    ''''Of course. Goodnight Raichi-kun.''''


    ''''Goodnight.'''' He texted, and closed the phone. Grabbing his alarm and setting it. Afterwards, he got up to close the lights and hopped in bed.


    Tomorrow, I won''t make the same mistake twice.

 Volume 1; Chapter 5; A Common Understanding With The Bookworm

    Raichi had woken up once again to a new morning. He had thought that the days he mostly dreaded seemed to fly by despite being somewhat unappealing.


    He had a realization that it really didn''t matter whether they were fun or not.


    However, he was aware that it could be more fun if he simply made use of the time he had. The time to chat, and make memories.


    And he vowed that he would make use of it this time around. Knowing that he might regret it later if he didn''t. After learning about what he had done by accident, he couldn''t look at Hiroshi in the face the same way he did.


    He knew he had made a mistake, whether it was big or small. He once again found himself questioning why he even signed up to get a wingman, taking every interaction so seriously. It didn''t make sense to him and it was impractical.


    Especially since he was having these social interactions for the sake of doing so. In conclusion, he decided to go along with Hiroshi''s game, knowing that eventually, doing something he liked would help him find people in common, like Yaori.


    After leaving his house, he met up with Hiroshi and Hara again, who greeted him cheerfully.


    "Good morning, Raichi-kun!"


    "Morning..."


    Hiroshi greeted him. The way Raichi was acting towards him looked off, but for now, it seemed like it didn''t bother Hiroshi. He struggled to replicate his usual expression, realizing it was instinctual and not something he could do manually. Hara curiously asked,


    ''''You okay, Raichi-kun...? You look strange this morning.''''


    ''''Uhh, I just woke up on the wrong side of the bed I guess.'''' He said, trying to brush it off.


    ''''Don''t be metaphorical with us, c''mon...'''' Hiroshi added.


    Raichi bluntly said, ''''Shut it. You don''t need to worry about it.'''' which probably came off a little rude.


    ''''Sure...'''' Hiroshi said with a doubtful look on his face.


    Raichi thought he ought to somehow inform Hara of his reasons for acting strangely prickly today. If Hara knew, she probably would not have asked about his well-being. Not willing to cause a misunderstanding,


    ''''I''m sure you can understand...'''' Raichi said, giving Hara a meaningful side-eye. Hara had given him a nod in response.


    <hr>


    When Raichi sat down, he could feel his sense of discomfort. And he was busy pouting, tapping on his desk out of boredom. But suddenly, he heard a voice approaching him.


    "Hey! Morning Sato-kun." Came out Haruki, waving.


    "Morning."


    "So, how is your day going today?" He said casually.


    "We just started the day,y''know?"


    "I guess that''s true. But do you have any special plans today?"


    "Hmm... Lemme think." Raichi said, requesting a moment to process. He was questioning whether he should lie or not.


    He preferred honesty, but knowing Haruki and Hiroshi''s nature, not following that choice seemed to be none the wiser. He may just know what that plan might be. However, he had to get the two off his tail.


    "Nothing in particular. Why do you ask?" He teased.


    "Why not? Kimura-kun''s curiosity wears on me at this point."


    "Well, you can''t help but go along with his cheerful and curious mindset." He added.


    "True."


    <hr>


    Raichi woke up from a strange feeling on his head. With half-opened eyes and a moody expression, he tried to touch his head but found that someone''s hat was on top of it. Looking up, he saw his buddy old pal Hiroshi.


    "Good morning, sleepyhead," Hiroshi greeted him.


    "W-Why did you... wake me up like that?" Raichi asked, still trying to shake off the sleepiness.


    "I only disturb your sleep when it''s most important," Hiroshi replied, taking his hat back. "Why don''t you go for a walk or something? Sleeping like this won''t give you any stamina."


    "You''re right, but I have something else in mind," Raichi said.


    He attempted to go through his mind in search of distractions and to keep Hiroshi''s gaze away from him while he at least tried to talk a little with Yaori.


    Having him away was plenty good enough, as he would rather put up with the effort to distract than to be teased. He knew Haruki was invested, but he trusted that he would not tease as much.


    And he knew Hara was very supportive of their soon-to-be relationship after the events of yesterday. And sooner or later, Raichi saw Hiroshi leaving for a little break. During that time, he had chosen the topic he wanted to chat about.


    He was going to talk about Miyamoto-san. The author of the books Yaori and he had in common. He thought that maybe he could lead the conversation from there.


    He leaned toward Yaori from his desk. He said in a soft-spoken voice,


    "Hey, Yamada-san...?"


    "Oh- Sato-kun? What is it?"


    "I was wondering, just how much you like Miyamoto-san''s books?"


    "How much do I like his books...?" Yaori said as she began thinking of reasons and how to describe it. As she pondered, he noticed Yaori''s unusually long eyelashes, especially prominent as her eyes fluttered in thought.


    Her natural beauty made him understand just why a lot of boys would be so eager to talk to her. But this had only raised more questions for him. Her genuine curiosity for literature seemed more intriguing to him, and it had drawn him in.


    Even if he had the same level of enthusiasm and passion for reading as she did, finding someone just like that was a different feeling. Putting her hand in front of her mouth, she said,


    "A lot. They mean... everything to me. A lot more than just books."


    "I am... happy to hear that. I think the same way." He nodded in agreement.


    "How many Miyamoto-san books do you carry in your bookbag, Sato-kun?" She asked.


    "Three or four. Though I''ve read all of them. I just like to read them again often."


    "It feels good to see a fellow fan..." She said, smiling.


    "Heh, I agree." He said, grabbing his other arm bashfully.


    And so, in an awkward silence, they gave each other a warm smile. But at that very moment, Raichi felt the uncertainty rising within him.


    According to what Hara had implied, it seemed like Yaori held herself back from saying something to him yesterday, and that thought hadn''t left his mind since.


    His concern was whether he should ask her what that exactly was.


    Perhaps the best idea was to go alone this time around after school. Maybe during this time, Yaori might bring up what was on her mind. The uneasiness was visible on his face, and of course, Yaori was bound to have suspicions.


    ''''S-Sato-kun... are you okay? You look a bit... restrained.''''


    ''''It''s nothing really... you don''t need to worry about it.''''


    "I... couldn''t help but notice."


    "I''ll address it later, okay?"


    "Um, okay."


    Yaori hesitantly stopped tilting. She still looked worried and uneasy.


    Wait... no. Why would I say it later? It is better to address it.


    Raichi hesitantly looked at Yaori, his gaze unwavering. He had feared that the thing on Yaori''s mind was something serious, and he did not want to make it wait any further.


    "H-Hey, Yamada-san...?"


    "S-Sato-kun? Is something on your mind?"


    "Um, I couldn''t help but notice... yesterday, you seemed like you had something you wanted to say to me, but then you held back... Am I right to assume that?" He inquired.


    "Ah... you noticed it, huh..."


    "I did... and it has been bothering me since. I just want you to know, that if something is bothering you, I am willing to listen."


    "Thank you, Sato-kun. You''re way too kind." She said.


    "I''m just looking out for you, really," Raichi reassured. "But is there anything to worry about?"


    Yaori sheepishly said, "It''s nothing! I am just... failing to put it into words."


    "Well, you have the time to process, so it is okay. No need to rush.''''


    "Okay, so... what I wanted to say was..."


    "I''m listening."


    "I-I..." Yaori hesitated, her cheeks flashing a rosy pink. She softly continued, "I was gonna ask whether we could walk home together!" She said, getting nervous halfway, and bashfully putting her hands in front of her chest.


    Raichi blinked in surprise. A small smile tugged at the corners of his lips.


    "Is that all? You seemed so hesitant, I thought it was something very serious."


    Yaori laughed softly in response, slightly embarrassed.


    "I guess I made it sound more complicated than it actually is... sorry about that," Yaori said with an apologetic smile.


    "No need to apologize," Raichi reassured her, relieved that the matter wasn''t as weighted as he feared. Truth be told, he had been worried that he made her uncomfortable. "I''d be more than happy to walk home with you."


    "Great! I''ll see you... after the classes then."


    "Of course." He nodded, feeling a sense of warmth at the prospect and thought of spending time with Yaori outside of school for the first time. But before he could even think about it, the conversation had abruptly ended at the sight of Hiroshi entering the room with two bottles of soda in his hands. Raichi had another frown on his face, expecting another possibly absurd discussion to come up.


    ''''Hey, I bought us some drinks!'''' Hiroshi chirped.


    ''''Well, how kind of you.''''


    Hiroshi set down Raichi''s bottle on his desk. And in an instant, Hiroshi had dumped the entire contents of the bottle down his throat. Raichi looked back at him, bewildered at such a sight. But seeing an innocent expression looking back at him, he quickly put on a wry smile, not wanting to ruin it. Raichi had been expecting the company.


    ''''So, Hiroshi-kun, I have something to say though.'' He said.


    ''''What is it?'''' Hiroshi said, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand.


    ''''I will be going alone today,'''' Raichi replied wryly.


    ''''Oh really?'''' Hiroshi teased, acting sceptical. ''''For what...?''''


    ''''Not that it''s any of your business, but it is something personal,'''' Raichi replied.


    "Something personal, huh?" Hiroshi said sarcastically. "I may be your wingman, but I do respect your boundaries, so I guess you can go alone." He grinned.


    "I... wasn''t really trying to get permission, I-I thought I didn''t need to..." He stammered, slightly embarrassed.


    "Well, you got it, so don''t worry about it," Hiroshi said while grinning.


    Wait... Yamada-san just overheard our conversation...!


    Meanwhile, Hara had been looking at them, eavesdropping all the while. Glancing over at Yaori, she could see her rosy pink face. It seemed like something about their conversation had embarrassed her.


    And Hara knew exactly what it was. Raichi who had just realized it, felt a sudden pang of guilt for indirectly stating his plans in front of her. Not to mention the fact that the word ''''wingman'''' had been mentioned, and she had clearly heard it. And that made things a lot more awkward.


    Raichi noticed a subtle change in Yaori''s expression out of the corner of his eye. Her face had still been glowing a delicate shade of pink.


    He turned back to Yaori, his own face also feeling warm all of a sudden,


    ''''So, um... shall we meet at the school gate after classes?'''' Raichi said in a flustered tone.


    Yaori nodded, saying, ''''Yes, Sato-kun, We''ll be there.'''' while also feigning and hiding her embarrassment.


    ''''Great. I''ll... be looking forward to it.''''


    Hiroshi, sensing the shift in the atmosphere, grinned and gave Raichi a thumbs-up before settling down at his own desk again. ''''Good luck, dude.'''' He said in a voice only Raichi could hear.


    Raichi rolled his eyes but couldn''t keep smiling either way. As the remainder of the classes resumed, he found it hard to concentrate.


    He did struggle with such an issue often, but this reason was rather unique. He had always been sleepy and sometimes couldn''t focus on his books.


    But this time, his mind was actually so occupied it couldn''t occupy anything else. His mind kept drifting to the upcoming walk home with Yaori. Out of shyness, he had been twiddling his thumb a few times and had thrown glances at Yaori.


    While doing so, he spotted her doing the same back at him. And occasionally, those glances had happened at the same time. Each moment, made his heart beat a little faster.


    <hr>


    At last, the final bell rang, signalling the end of the day. Raichi had fidgety gathered his personal belongings, making his way over to the lockers, and then the gates.


    Looking over, he could see the fluttering chestnut brown hair approaching him from afar. Holding her other arm, she bashfully approached him. Her face was still as rosy as ever.


    "Well, are you ready, Yamada-san?"


    "Yes, I am ready, Sato-kun."


    And the two set off. As they began walking side by side, a comfortable silence settled between them.


    The sun was setting towards the horizon, casting a warm golden glow over the school grounds. Though some stares were thrown at their side, Raichi ignored them, knowing how to deal with such an occurrence.


    Raichi glanced at Yaori, seeing how the sunlight made her hair shine so beautifully, along with her discomfort from the stares that she too, was ignoring. In an attempt to lighten the atmosphere and mood, he asked,


    "Um, Yamada-san," Raichi began. "Do you usually walk home alone?"


    "...Most of the time.'''' She said. ''''I listen to music whenever I have to walk home like that. It is peaceful, and the tranquil walk gives me time to think.'''' She said with an honest smile. ''''What about you, Sato-kun?''''


    Raichi hesitated for a moment, contemplating how much he should reveal.


    ''''I... usually walk with my friends Hiroshi-kun and Hara-chan, but... I do love a good walk alone back home sometimes.'''' He admits hesitantly. Though in his mind, the answer was rather obvious.


    Yaori nodded, her eyes reflecting the evening sunlight. "I agree. It feels like a breath of fresh air... a little escape from everything."


    They continued walking, their steps falling into a synchronized rhythm.


    The streets they were going through were mostly quiet, as most students had already headed home.


    The occasional sound of passing traffic and rustling leaves filled the air.


    Raichi had felt some familiarities between the two of them. As if there was some common ground connecting them. The aching of his taunting past seemed to fade away in these shared moments with this bookworm whom he had only met recently. He knew that Yaori had a reason for being so distant at school.


    Raichi had been curious about something regarding Yaori''s interests, also wanting to explore their common interests more, he asked,


    "Yamada-san, what got you into reading Miyamoto-san''s books?"


    Yaori''s face lit up at the mention of her favourite author. ''''It was actually my big sister who introduced me to his works. She bought me a book of his for my birthday a few years ago. I''ve been hooked ever since."


    "That must be nice," Raichi said smiling. "It''s great to have someone to share your interests with."


    "Yeah. She has always been supportive of me and my love for reading." Yaori said with a softer tone. "What about you, Sato-kun? How did you discover Miyamoto-san''s books?"


    "I... found one of his books in the library once. I ended up reading the whole thing in one sitting. It was quite captivating..."


    Yaori nodded enthusiastically. "His ability to create such immersion is incredible. It''s like everything around just... vanishes and it is just you and the book left to stand.''''


    Raichi softly chuckled in response to her way of describing it. "That''s awfully specific..."


    "Heheh. It is. That is what''s so good about it."


    A comfortable silence had settled in. Yaori had been thoughtfully smiling into the distance. Raichi looked at Yaori again, willing to ask another personal question.


    "Do you... have a favourite book of his?" He asked.


    "That''s a tough question..." Yaori said, her brows furrowing in thought. "Hmm... I think ''Forestful of Whispers'' was my personal favourite."


    "I can see why.'''' He said understandingly. ''''The way he describes the setting... it makes me think as if I was actually there," Raichi said, feeling excitement at the sight of shared interest. ''''I love that one too, but...'''' he said, spacing out to think.


    Yaori looked back at him expectantly.


    ''''The book I love the most is... ''Eternal Echoes''. It''s the one I gave you.''''


    Yaori''s eyes widened, and her face flushed in response. ''''Y-Your favourite is... ''Eternal Echoes''?''''


    ''''Yes. It is also the book I''ve reread the most. I have truly made a bond with it.'''' He said with an honest smile on his face.


    ''''But... then why would you give me your signed copy of it?'''' Yaori asked, her voice filled with genuine curiosity and a hint of concern.


    Raichi looked down for a moment, gathering his thoughts. ''''I do have a profound place in my heart for the sign on it, but what I love it the most for is the story itself. And if the sign makes you happy, I know for a fact you would take good care of it. It felt right to share something so meaningful with someone who would appreciate it just as much as I do.''''


    Yaori''s eyes softened, and she looked down, her cheeks still flushed, her hands held together behind her back in response. ''''I... I don''t know what to say, Sato-kun... thank you, it means a lot to me.''''


    ''''I''m glad you think so,'''' Raichi said, then sighed out of relief and happiness. ''''It is a special book, so I''m happy you have it.''''


    Yaori''s face grew even more rosy at the honest tone Raichi had taken. She bit her lip nervously, glancing away to hide her embarrassment. To change the topic, she fidgeted with the hem of her skirt, and asked,


    ''''D-Did you have any reading partners growing up?''''


    Raichi''s expression turned thoughtful, and a wave of memories came awash. All those times he had read by his lonesome, unable to share his opinions with anybody, and finding solace in those stories. He had always been content with his solitude. But now, walking beside another bookworm who could respond back in tone, he realized just how much he longed for this kind of connection.


    ''''I... sadly didn''t have any,'''' he admitted. ''''It was mostly me, the books and I.''''


    Yaori glanced at him, giving him an understanding look. She took a brief moment to process her words.


    ''''It is nice to share that experience with someone though...''''


    ''''It must be,'''' Raichi replied with a hint of sadness, his heart warming at the thought.


    Yaori hesitated for a moment, her cheeks still visibly rosy. She tucked a strand of her chestnut hair behind her ear as a nervous gesture. ''''I-I was wondering... would you like to read together in the library sometime, Sato-kun? I-I mean, if you would like to...''''


    Raichi blinked in surprise, his heart skipping a beat. Not expecting the sudden invitation, he said, ''''Really? You''d do that?''''


    ''''Of course,'''' Yaori said, her voice barely above a whisper. ''''I''d love to share that experience with you.''''


    ''''I-I''d like that a lot,'''' Raichi said, feeling a comforting warmth at the thought. ''''T-Thank you Yamada-san.''''


    Raichi still hadn''t realized what kind of offer he had received, never expecting to get such an opportunity in the first place.


    As they continued walking, Raichi glanced at Yaori again. Despite her popularity, he could see the quiet strength and resilience inside her.


    He wondered how she felt about all the pressures and social expectations that came her way. He could sense that, like him, she had learned to navigate through the complexities of school life by finding solace within her interests.


    ''''Yamada-san...'''' Raichi began hesitantly, ''''Do you ever feel... overwhelmed by all the attention you get at school?''''


    Yaori let out a soft sigh in response, her eyes a hint of melancholy. ''''Sometimes, yes. It''s not easy, but I have learned to manage it... and having my big sister''s support helps a lot. And now, having a friend who understands... it makes a big difference.''''


    Raichi, feeling grateful, said, ''''I''m glad we can be that for each other, Yamada-san.''''


    ''''Me too, Sato-kun,'''' she said, her smile returning. ''''Thank you for being so concerned about that... no one really asks how I feel about all this.'''' She said, turning away.


    ''''Of course. I could tell your discomfort from just a glance, actually...'''' Raichi stated in concern, remembering a while back to their shared glance at the ceremony.


    ''''I''m happy you noticed... thank you, Sato-kun.''''


    ''''Anytime.'''' He replied benignly, feeling proud of the quality conversation he just had. As he took another glance ahead of him, he saw the gorgeous park approaching, basking under the orange sunlight of the dipping horizon.


    And something that had especially caught his sight was the bench lying under the cherry blossom trees. The serene environment highlighted a singular spot. Such a beautiful place to take a break, he thought.


    "Hey, Yamada-san? If you want, we can take a break in that park over there." Raichi said as he nodded towards the park. Yaori glanced back at the park, her eyes dilating.


    "That''d be lovely." She said, so Raichi directed her by staying close. Her voice tinged with excitement.


    <hr>


    They patiently waited for the passing traffic to clear and crossed the street together, the space between them seemingly getting smaller.


    As they took in the surroundings, Yaori''s expression softened. "This is beautiful," she said, marveling at the pink hue of the cherry blossom trees and their falling petals.


    "It really is." Raichi agreed. "I usually just pass through here on my way home, but today felt... different.''''


    They navigated and reached toward the bench and gently sat down. The soft petals occasionally drift down around them. The tranquil atmosphere and feel enveloping them made the day''s worries seem distant. The park had everything it could offer for a young middle school child. A children''s playground along with a small sandpit, some benches for the parents to sit and watch by, and a magical scenery provided by all the surrounding trees and greenery. Even though he was already far past the age to be playing, sliding down those slides and swinging around, it felt nostalgic to see the sight either way.


    Looking at Yaori through the corner of his eye, Raichi could see the reflection of the beauty emanating from the park through her eyes.


    ''''I don''t usually take the time to just sit and relax in parks like this. It''s nice.'''' She said.


    ''''Yeah, it is,'''' Raichi said, feeling a sense of peace. He looked back at Yaori, noticing her hair strands glowing amidst the wind.


    They stood there in comfortable silence for a few moments. The presence of wind had been distracting, with not only the petals flowing around but also his own slightly messy hair moving along with Yaori''s. His eyes squinting, he glanced at Yaori''s head, spotting a vibrant, pink cherry blossom petal that seemed to be stuck there.


    Smiling softly, he reached out and gently brushed it away. "Y-You had a petal in your hair," Raichi said, his fingers lingering for a moment.


    Yaori''s eyes widened, and her cheeks flushed a deeper shade. "Th-Thank you, Sato-kun," she stammered, her voice tinged with an embarrassing tone.


    This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report itRaichi''s touch made her heart race momentarily, and she felt an unexpected warmth spreading through her. The simple act had left her feeling bashful, yet comforted. Looking at her, Raichi saw a hint of uneasiness.


    The two sat quietly around for a while longer, Yaori''s unease still present. The soft rustling of leaves, the wind''s blurred sounds, and the distant chirping of birds creating a tranquil backdrop. Yaori slightly shifted. She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, and while slightly fidgeting, glanced at Raichi.


    "S-Sato-kun... would you mind if I... b-borrowed your shoulder for a bit?" She asked, her voice barely above a whisper.


    Raichi''s heart skipped a beat at the sight of the request. Raichi, who had only experienced such intimacy with someone like Hara while playing games, did not know what to do at the moment. His face still reddened, he said,


    "S-Sure, Yamada-san,"


    Yaori hesitated briefly before finally leaning her head on Raichi''s shoulder. The intimacy flushed her face, but she felt a comforting ardour within Raichi''s presence. Raichi too, felt the same way, although he also experienced a mix of nervousness and happiness.


    As Yaori settled in, Raichi could feel the sudden weight of her head on his shoulder. After she settled, she leaned a little closer. Raichi felt slightly timid, feeling her soft hair falling down his shoulder, and he was close enough to hear the gentle rise and fall of her breathing. But that also rendered him almost unable to move. Fidgeting with his left hand on the bench, he was questioning whether he should slightly tilt his head, too. Instinctively, he had turned on his neutral face, despite the blush making it glaringly obvious. He had nervously been looking left and right, his eyes darting around. Eventually, he had calmed down, finally able to bask in the surroundings. Without all the excess nervousness he had been feeling just a second ago, he truly felt like he really was enjoying the calm and gentle breeze. And of course, with at least someone by his side.


    And with a gentle sense of contentment, he slowly shut his eyes, starting to calm his breath himself.


    ''''I see you''re that comfortable...'''' Yaori interjected. ''''I''m... happy you trust me, Sato-kun.''''


    ''''I wouldn''t turn you down like that, and you know it,'''' He replied. ''''Although, mind if I ask why you trust me, too?''''


    Yaori reflected back at herself in response, looking thoughtful.


    ''''Truth is... you just seemed like someone I could trust. You say you can see through my gaze and see my struggle through it, but I can see yours too, Sato-kun.'''' She said hesitantly. Raichi bitterly looked away in response, seeing as to how well he had been read. Even his close friends wouldn''t know if he hadn''t told them, so seeing someone who had seen right through him was a surprise, to say the least.


    ''''So, what do you think?'''' He said, urging her to keep going. He had never specifically been requested by someone to vent his frustrations.


    ''''I think that... like me, the only people you could trust are your close friends, family and books...''''


    ''''I can see that you read right through me,'''' He admitted.


    After sharing an understanding chuckle, she said,


    ''''A bookworm knows a bookworm best, that''s what my sister told me,'''' She added. ''''She told me, ''After reading all the meaningful and life-changing words and meaning through those books and stories, you may find it easier to read one another, too.'' A sentence that stood out to me.''''


    ''''She must be quite a wise person.'''' He honestly complimented her sister in response.


    ''''She really is.''''


    Thinking back to it, the words coming from her sister, Raichi had found them to be more weighty than he considered them to be. However, Raichi had wanted to talk about more than that, to rein in the moment, and enjoy it to its fullest.


    "I think... you should try closing your eyes, too." He said, asking her to try the same.


    "I-If you want me to, sure..." She said, shutting her eyes at Raichi''s demand. She also tried to take in the calm and quiet air. Afterwards, a carefree smile had been playing on her lips.


    She looks like she is really enjoying this... I am, too.


    Raichi also closed his eyes in kind, and let out a sigh of relief. The moment had felt everlasting. With nothing to see in sight, the only thing sensible being the sounds of wind blurring, leaves drifting left and right, the feeling of time completely pausing, and the birds chirping on said trees.


    "I am delighted that you thought of stopping by here, Sato-kun," her eyes still closed. "We should do this again sometime."


    At Yaori''s words, Raichi put on a thoughtful expression, trying to think of something. He felt like doing it "sometime again" felt unsatisfactory, not enough.


    "Say, Yamada-san...?"


    "What is it, Sato-kun?" She said in a curious tone. "Do you have something on your mind?"


    "As a matter of fact, I do," He said playfully. "What if we... make this a regular thing?"


    "Make what... a regular thing?" She said, turning her head at Raichi, her eyes widening in question after finally opening them.


    ''''What if we come here... every day, after school?'''' Raichi suggested with a hint of nervousness in his voice, only hearable by Yaori. ''''It''s so... calm and relaxing here, and I think it''d be nice to have something to look forward to every day. A chance to unwind.''''


    Yaori''s face flushed a light pink, her eyes widening ever so slightly. ''''E-Every day, Sato-kun?'''' She stammered, her voice barely above a whisper.


    Raichi noticed her reaction and gave a warm and innocent smile in response, not realizing why he made her blush. ''''Yeah. Every day. We could do more than only sitting here from now on, like reading and stuff, since we''d have our bags on us, too. I would for sure be looking forward to it if we ever did so...''''


    Yaori looked down, trying to hide her bashful expression. ''''I... I''d like that, too.''''


    Raichi''s heart lifted at her words. ''''Great! Thank you for accepting my offer, Yamada-san.''''


    ''''No... I should be thanking you, Sato-kun. I''ll look forward to it.'''' She said, smiling back at him.


    They both chuckled, feeling a new sense of connection. But after gazing around, it was clear that the sun had begun to set and cast a warm orange glow over the park, indicating that it was slowly getting late. Yaori hesitantly spoke up, saying,


    ''''Is it... getting late already?'''' Raichi said.


    ''''It seems so... I wanted it to last a little while longer though...'''' She said whiningly. ''''Should we leave?''''


    ''''We kind of have to, so yeah...'''' He said, hesitantly letting her head off of his shoulder, right before getting up. Yaori dusted her skirt of any might-be dirt. Raichi followed suit, dusting his pants. She tapped on her glasses and put them back in place. After patiently waiting for Raichi, she said,


    ''''Are you ready to go?''''


    ''''Yeah, let''s go.'''' He said, slowly starting to walk, following the dirt and stone path they had previously followed onto the bench. After reaching the gate, Raichi looked around the area and spotted a familiar blonde hair around the corner a few steps away, but decided to shrug it off. He turned toward Yaori, who had spontaneously gotten closer to him, just an inch away from touching his arms. He knew the relaxed and calm intimacy of their break on the bench would still be lingering, even after they had left already. It wasn''t a gesture he didn''t like, but it was definitely unexpected. But in the end, he did not object to it.


    Their footsteps followed in sync and rhythm, creating yet another peaceful silence. The path they were going through had been lined with tall trees, their leaves falling and crinkling in the gentle evening breeze. Raichi glanced at Yaori, who was seemingly lost in thought. Her usual reserved demeanour had softened, way different from how she was back at school. Raichi knew that he was also behaving differently. Yaori glanced back at him through the corner of her eye, giving a bright smile, both putting on a soft blush. The moment had felt endearing. It had been quite a while since he had a memory to cherish like this. But suddenly- Yaori had bashfully turned away, perhaps busy with something. Raichi looked at her, raising an eyebrow.


    ''''You okay, Yamada-san?''''


    ''''Oh- it''s nothing! I was just... thinking of how I should put it.''''


    ''''I think you have something to say in that case.'''' He said, waiting patiently for a response.


    ''''About what I said earlier... the reading session,'''' She said timidly. ''''I want to do it while eating lunch on Monday afternoon.''''She said, her voice soft and hopeful.


    ''''M-Monday afternoon?'''' He blinked in surprise. ''''Fine by me. But if you wanted a more private space, it would be better to do it on the weekend somewhere relaxing, like in the park.''''


    ''''I know... but I thought that we could bring pre-packed lunches and eat somewhere different.''''


    ''''...I''m listening.'''' He said, genuinely intrigued by the idea of a private lunch.


    ''''We''d be able to read in peace, just like in the park. What do you think?''''


    ''''I''d love that. That seems like a lovely idea.''''


    After said conversation, the comfortable silence couldn''t settle in as easily this time around, the atmosphere was still bashful. In order to distract himself, he brought out a water bottle and drank some water, which seemed to have worked. But even with that, a growing sense of ease and happiness was present along with Yaori''s company.


    ''''I really enjoyed today, Yamada-san,'''' Raichi said in a grateful tone. ''''I hope we can do more stuff like this.''''


    ''''Me too, Sato-kun... it was really nice to share it with you,'''' Yaori said, reassuring Raichi.


    As they approached the place of their departure, Raichi''s street, a feeling of reluctance arose. Although Raichi felt hesitant about leaving, he had no choice either. Raichi said regretfully,


    ''''Well, I guess this is where we part ways,'''' Raichi said.


    ''''This is where you live?'' Yaori said, her eyes widening in question.


    ''''Yeah. I recently just moved here, actually.''''


    ''''I-I actually live pretty nearby,'''' Yaori chirped. ''''How well do you know the area?''''


    ''''Not much. I only know the route from my house to the school and the park,'''' Raichi replied.


    ''''I could help you navigate if you ever need help...''''


    ''''I would love that, although Hiroshi-kun would probably take the initiative before you do and carry me to places anyway.'''' Raichi said disappointingly.


    ''''O-Oh... okay.''''


    After a momentary awkward hush, Yaori muttered,


    ''''Well... goodnight, Sato-kun.''''


    ''''Goodnight, Yamada-san,'''' Raichi responded. After waving each other goodbye, he watched her as she turned and walked away in the other direction.


    That was... a big day.


    Raichi was about to turn towards his house and leave, but then his attention was drawn to the person with blonde hair from earlier peeking around the corner. He closed his eyes, pretending not to have noticed them, and then walked in their direction, raising his voice,


    "You can come out now... Hiroshi-kun." He said. Behind one of the trees standing in line, the confident grin and glimmering blonde hair emerged. It seemed like the self-proclaimed wingman took liberties with his terms of conditions as a wingman. Raichi could only help but wonder just how much Hiroshi had seen.


    "Well, well, well! It seems you saw right through me, huh Raichi-kun?"


    "I saw you peeking in the park as well, y''know." He said. "Just what did you see when you were there?"


    "Hmm..." Hiroshi put his hands behind his back, smirking. "A lot more than you think."


    "Are you kidding me...?" Raichi said in a disappointed tone, facepalming.


    He had planned on keeping this from him, and that this now soon-to-be frequent park visit would be a special secret between him and Yaori.


    "What~? Were you planning on hiding this from me or what?!" Hiroshi said, his frustration creeping in. "I''m your wingman, y''know?"


    Hiroshi stood where he stood, waiting for a response. Raichi thought that not everything about his relationships should be common knowledge for his wingman. Because he knew that it wouldn''t be true to himself, a special relationship not so special and secret after sharing it.


    ''''I wanted to keep this as our little secret... but I guess that''s what being a wingman requires...'''' He muttered quietly.


    Feeling reluctant to share the ''news'', he knew that Hiroshi probably knew already. But he was confident that the conversation was unintelligible from afar.


    Raichi sighed, dropping his hand from his face. ''''Look, Hiroshi-kun... I appreciate what you''re doing. But some things... I just want to keep them between me and Yamada-san, okay?''''


    Hiroshi''s grin eventually subsided into a soft, genuine smile. ''''I know that, Raichi-kun. I won''t pry too much. Just know that... I''m here to help.''''


    Raichi nodded, feeling a bit relieved. ''''Thank you, Hiroshi-kun.''''


    ''''I... won''t keep you any longer. Have a good night, Raichi-kun,'''' Hiroshi said, giving him a thumbs-up before slowly turning and walking away.


    Raichi watched his best buddy take his leave, shaking his head with a smile on his face.


    He turned back towards his own house, feeling like reflecting back to everything that happened that day. As the lasting park visit and conversation took over his train of thought, a thoughtful expression showed on his face, gazing into the distance. Rethinking back to his shared moment with Yaori on the bench, he found himself blushing at the sight.


    "I think... I won''t forget this day for a long time," he muttered.


    <hr>


    He pushed open the door, stepping into the warm and familiar interior of his home. As he entered, his sincere and genuine smile couldn''t help but still linger- a stark contrast to his usual demeanour.


    Raichi could see his mother, Emiko Sato, who seemed to be in the living room, busy tidying up a few scattered magazines. She looked up as she heard the door open and was immediately taken aback by the expression on her son''s face.


    ''''Raichi dear? Is that you?'''' She asked, her eyes wide in surprise. ''''You look... different. You were also a little later than usual. Did something good happen today?''''


    Raichi paused for a moment, wondering to himself. The smile was still lingering on his lips.


    I look... different today?


    He knew it wasn''t easy to exactly put what happened and his thoughts into words, at least not yet.


    ''''I guess so,'''' he replied, his voice carrying a genuine, content undertone.


    Emiko furrowed and raised an eyebrow, setting the magazines aside. ''''Well, I''m glad to see you happy and smiling. You should do it more often, Raichi dear. It suits you.''''


    ''''Thank you, Mom. I appreciate that.''''


    He slowly made his way up the stairs. Halfway through, his mother called out to him. ''''Dinner will be ready in a few hours. Don''t forget to wash up, okay?''''


    ''''Got it,'''' he responded, climbing the rest of the stairs.


    Once inside, he shut the door and rested against it, pausing to take a deep breath. His room was neatly organized, with designated spots for arranged books, drawings and the faint scent of paper, the norm for his safe haven. He put his bag down and sat on his bed, taking a moment to appreciate the quietness of his room. But instead of picking up another book to read, he found himself simply enjoying the buzz of contentment. But then, something came to his mind. Hiroshi had demanded that the three of them go to the mall the next day. He had honestly forgotten about it. As he was about to pick up his phone and get a confirmation about it, his phone buzzed, snapping him out of his thoughts. It seemed to be a message from Hiroshi;


    ''''Hey dude, nice job today! You did great.''''


    Raichi, chuckling softly, typed a quick reply. ''''Thanks, Hiroshi-kun. But next time, try not to spy on me, okay?''''


    He quickly started typing another message. ''''Are we going to the mall tomorrow, by the way?''''


    Hiroshi, not hesitating for a second, responded with, ''''Absolutely. I have some cool clothing you might wanna check out.''''


    ''''Okay.''''


    He put the phone down and lay back on his bed, staring at the ceiling with a smile.


    <hr>


    Yaori made her way back home, her thoughts still lingering on the moments she shared with Raichi at the park. She recalled their conversation, the serene silence, and how comforting it felt to rest her head on Raichi''s shoulder. At such thoughts, she could not help but smile.


    When she reached her home, she opened the door and stepped inside, greeted by the familiar warmth of her house.


    ''''I''m home, nee-san!'''' Yaori called out as she slipped off her shoes and quickly put on a pair of slippers.


    Ayaka Yamada, her older sister, appeared from the kitchen doorway, a warm smile on her face. ''''Welcome back, Yaori-chan. You''re home a bit later than usual, and you''ve got a bright smile on your face. Did something good happen?''''


    Yaori nodded, slightly blushing. ''''...I guess so. We''re you cooking, nee-san?''''


    ''''Yeah, I was. Come in, I''m almost done.''''


    The sisters moved to the kitchen together, where Ayaka resumed her cooking. Yaori sat at the table, watching her sister cook. The familiar and comforting aroma of her sister''s food filled the room.


    ''''I can tell, y''know...'''' Ayaka remarked teasingly.


    ''''W-What is it...?''''


    ''''So, who''s the lucky person who managed to put that smile on your face, Yaori-chan?'''' Ayaka asked, glancing at her with a knowing look.


    Yaori hesitated, her cheeks turning a shade of pink. ''''Just a classmate I happened to get closer to... Sato-kun. We spent some time together at the park.''''


    Ayaka raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. ''''Oh? Sato-kun, huh? Tell me more about him. I thought you don''t usually let people enter your personal space.''''


    Yaori looked down at her hands, fidgeting slightly. ''''I...don''t. But he is... different. He saw right through me. He said he could tell my struggles with people''s expectations from just a glance. Our shared interest in books, and his concern for me... I can say for sure that I''ve never felt this comfortable with a classmate ever...''''


    Ayaka''s smile widened as she listened, noting the way Yaori''s eyes lit up when she talked about Raichi. There is something special here, even if she doesn''t realize it yet...


    Ayaka quickly brushing off her thoughts, said, ''''Sounds like a nice guy. What else?''''


    ''''He''s kind and thoughtful...'''' Yaori continued, her smile growing. ''''Oh, I forgot about this...''''


    Yaori quickly rummaged through her bag, bringing out the signed copy of Eternal Echoes that Raichi had given her. After bringing it out, she pointed at the sign.


    ''''He gave me a signed copy of one of Miyamoto-san''s books...''''


    Ayaka paused, her eyes widening in surprise. ''''E-Eternal Echoes? Miyamoto-san''s books are very difficult to get signed! They rarely do stuff like that anymore. That''s amazing, Yaori-chan! How did he manage to get that in the first place? And why did he decide to give it to you?''''


    Yaori blushed even deeper, looking away. ''''H-He said he got it when he was a child. He has been a fan of Miyamoto-san for years. Back when their books were only recently getting attention, he got it when they were still selling in convention stands... he knew how much I loved their books and wanted to give me something special...''''


    Ayaka felt very impressed by this Sato-kun. ''''Wow, Yaori-chan. That''s really something. Miyamoto-san''s books have always been significant to us. This Sato-kun must really care about you to give you such a thoughtful gift.''''


    Yaori nodded, feeling a mixture of happiness and embarrassment. ''''Maybe... but I felt too grateful, and I thought I should give him at least my copy of Eternal Echoes that I was carrying on me. He told me his favourite book ever was the one he gave me...''''


    Ayaka, knowing how Yaori takes care of her books, asked,


    ''''Y-You gave yours to him in return? But don''t you have... personal notes in there?''''


    ''''I-I do. But he said he does the same thing. I figured I could trust him.''''


    ''''Hmm...''''


    Ayaka couldn''t help but tease her sister a bit more. ''''You know... it sounds like you two are hitting it off quite well.''''


    Yaori blinked in confusion. ''''Hitting it off...?''''


    Ayaka chuckled. ''''Never mind. So, did anything else interesting happen besides the book?''''


    Yaori jumped slightly, flashing back to the park. ''''W-Well, um- we had a really nice conversation. And he made me feel... happy.''''


    Ayaka turned to face her sister, a knowing smile on her face.


    ''''You said... he said that he could see through your struggles, is that so?''''


    ''''Yeah... what about it?''''


    ''''That means... he doesn''t mind letting you confide in him. He does not see you as the Acing Bookworm. He sees you as Yamada-san, a fellow bookworm.''''


    ''''I... never thought about it like that...''''


    ''''How is he like... generally?'''' Ayaka asked concerningly.


    ''''He seems to be... closed-off, and cold to almost everybody else. Stoic, even.''''


    ''''How so?''''


    ''''I can tell that... he has a reasoning behind his behaviour too. But I don''t know what it actually is. But in a sense, we are both in very similar positions. He never told me the specifics...''''


    ''''If you can confide in him, it is only fair that you let him do the same. You''ve got to reassure him, too. Whether you directly ask him or show him that he can trust you.''''


    ''''You''re right, nee-san. Thank you.''''


    Ayaka smiled warmly. ''''Don''t worry about it. Now, I propose something. How about you and I go to the mall tomorrow? You may have traded your books, but we should get something for him to show your gratitude for his gesture.''''


    Yaori''s eyes lit up. ''''That sounds like a great idea, nee-san!''''


    Ayaka gave a lighthearted chuckle and returned to her cooking, glancing back at her sister with a teasing smile.


    <hr>


    It was almost time to sleep, and Yaori lay in her bed reading. She was reading Raichi''s book, wanting to read it once more for Raichi''s sake, wondering why Raichi loves it as much as he does. She continued to flip and skim through the pages of the book.


    As she read, occasionally, she would come across small notes in the margins of pages. One of them caught her attention. Intrigued, she leaned closer to it, putting her glasses back on. In between one of the passages, Raichi had written a note like he was talking to the character. It read,


    ''''This part... it made me think about how we all wear masks to hide our true selves. But sometimes, it''s okay to let someone see the real you. I hope you find someone who can see the real you and accept you for who you are, just as I desire.''''


    Yaori''s heart fluttered as she read Raichi''s words, which he never intended for anyone else to see. Finally, she felt a deeper connection and understanding of him. He had seen right through her facade and accepted her for who she was. It was a comforting thought, and it made her feel a warmth she hadn''t felt for a long time.


    He really is amazing...


    Closing the book, Yaori reflected on Raichi''s note. The words resonated with her deeply, and she felt a newfound sense of hope and resilience. Knowing that she had found someone who could truly understand her. And after having gained knowledge of the one common desire between them, she let out a contented sigh. She turned off her bedside lamp and properly settled down into the bed, anticipating the next time she would see Raichi again.

 Volume 1; Chapter 6; The Bookworms Gesture

    Raichi closed and put aside the novel he had been engrossed in, setting his posture and getting slightly up from his position.


    I see¡­ that''s how it ends.


    He was busy reading in his room, checking the time over and over, as he was eagerly awaiting a clear answer from Hiroshi about the location of their promised meetup today. Suddenly, his phone buzzing snapped him out of his thoughts. Looking at his notifications, and just as he expected, he saw a message with a location attachment from Hiroshi. He opened the app, and Hiroshi could be seen typing.


    ''''You ready dude? Here''s the location.''''


    ''''Why meet up though? We live nearby, you could just lead me there, y''know that, right?'''' Raichi paused, and added, ''''Also, did you tell Hara-chan, too?''''


    ''''Suzuki-chan and I will arrive a little later, you''ll see.''''


    ''''Alright.''''


    And so, Raichi, who was already dressed, left for the location Hiroshi had sent him. However, one question still bugged him. He still couldn''t shake the feeling that his wingman was up to something, why even go separately when they live in such close distance? Knowing how Hiroshi acted, he was sure that there was a motive behind it all.


    Being his wingman, Hiroshi obviously would be onto something. He knew his friend almost too well at this point. He was always the two-winged scheming man he always was, even more serious when it came to matters of the heart. Despite his suspicions, he decided to let his friend slide just this once. Being the type of guy who is unable to say no, as well as having nothing else to do, he accepted the offer.


    <hr>


    He finally made his way there, leaning against the wall nearby. He scanned around, trying to look for any signs of the two friends he''d be waiting for. He felt a crisp breeze tugging at his jacket, as it was a little chilly compared to recent days, and the sky was a pale gray despite the time of the hour.


    Glancing to his right, he had to double-check what he was seeing.


    He blinked in surprise, as a pair of figures were approaching, one who was already familiar to him. Both were chestnut-haired, and one of them was unmistakable.


    Recognizing one of them to clearly be Yaori, he slowly waved at them, his lips curving into a warm smile as a bead of sweat rolled down his cheek, nervousness gnawing at him. He was unable to think of what to do with what conversation lay ahead.


    He slowly made the connection, and without a doubt, the taller girl next to her was none other than her beloved big sister Ayaka, whom he had gotten to know through the chat he had with Yaori en route to the park.


    I should''ve expected to run into them sooner or later considering she lives nearby¡­ I was still surprised, nonetheless.


    ''''Hello. Nice to see you again, Yamada-san.'''' Raichi attempted to greet her. ''''How have you been?''''


    ''''Nice to see you too, Sato-kun¡­'''' Yaori replied softly. ''''I''m fine, what about you?''''


    ''''Thanks. I feel the same way.''''


    Ayaka interjected into the conversation, introducing herself. Raichi''s body slightly stiffened in surprise, unexpecting of Ayaka''s friendly nature.


    ''''So, you''re¡­ Sato-kun, huh?'' Ayaka said with an outgoing smile. ''''Nice to meet you! The name''s Ayaka Yamada. Feel free to call me Ayaka-san, especially with my Yaori-chan around.''''


    ''''Fine by me,'''' Raichi responded, understanding her intention of setting up a light mood. ''''So, what are you guys up to?''''


    ''''Oh, a friend of mine said to meet him here.''''


    Raichi stood back, blinking in confusion.


    What a wild coincidence that we cross paths here of all places? He thought. How random was it that they met up here at the exact same specific spot? Willing to figure out or confirm this suspicion that weighed his mind, he asked,


    ''''If you don''t mind me asking¡­'''' Raichi said, shifting awkwardly. ''''Is this friend of yours¡­ blond by any chance?''''


    There was a sinking feeling that he already knew the answer, but he felt obliged to ask anyway.


    ''''Uhh¡ª'''' Ayaka blinked twice, dumbfounded. ''''Yeah¡­ how''d you tell, Sato-kun?''''


    Raichi laughed nervously, finding himself having to explain such a bizarre occurrence. Having to tell that it was the man, the myth, the legend himself that was behind it all was hard to put into words.


    ''Well, um¡­ if his name is Hiroshi Kimura¡­'''' Raichi continued nervously. ''''Then it seems our crossing was fated, or rather¡­ planned.''''


    ''''Ooh, you''ve got a way with words, Sato-kun.'''' Ayaka complimented. ''''Is that so? Well, is he coming?''''


    Before Raichi could answer the question, Yaori shot a small pout at her sister, her cheeks slightly puffing. She was a little visibly frustrated. Her sister just complimented her close friend with such ease and casually. She felt a little jealous that her words were taken right out of her mouth.


    I¡ªI could''ve said that myself¡­! She regretted.


    ''''He just texted me¡­'''' Raichi said, closing his phone and putting it in his pocket. ''''He and Hara-chan aren''t coming.''''


    ''''I see¡­'''' Ayaka closed her eyes, pouting with her hand on her chin.


    "Um¡ª" Yaori tried to mutter something. At that moment, she had been gazing at Raichi and knew she would love his company right about then. She mustered up enough courage to finally express her thoughts.


    "S-Sato-kun, in that case¡­ could you¡ªcome along with us?" She lowered her gaze in response, her words tumbling out one after another.


    "Oh? Well, she is right." Ayaka teasingly added. "We wouldn''t mind."


    ''''Wait, what?'''' Raichi hesitated. Waving his hands out left and right in refusal. ''''I-I wouldn''t want to intrude on your family time like this! ¡ª Are you really sure about this?''''


    Raichi felt like leaving that last line out, but part of him just really wanted to hang out with Yaori again, and instinctively, he muttered the assurance he intended to keep to himself, but he couldn''t deny it.


    ''''I-I mean¡­ if you want to¡­'''' Yaori put her hands behind her back, her gaze still fixated on the ground from her earlier comment. ''''I wouldn''t mind if you came along¡­''''


    ''''I wouldn''t mind either, in fact, I think this is the perfect time.'''' Ayaka smiled. ''''C''mon, come along with us!''''


    ''''O-Okay then, I''ll come along!''''


    ''''Alright!'''' Ayaka cheered, her hands in front of her face. ''''I''ll lead the way. We''re gonna have to take the train.''''


    Oh¡­ the metro station. It is currently a rush hour though¡­ It could be packed right about now!


    <hr>


    During the journey to the station, the walk was strangely quiet. The comfortable silence that was present just a day ago was now awkward, having a third person present. Acting the way she did right in front of her sister, she recalled back to how embarrassing it must have been. Her mind was racing, still overthinking what Raichi had thought of her at that moment. Recalling back to yesterday, she couldn''t put into words just how much she loved it. The tranquility and peace, the presence of it all just weighed on her mind.


    I am enjoying this a bit too much¡­ but¡­ I can''t help but want more. Sato-kun was right. But wait!


    But then, it hit her. The plan to buy Raichi a gift unveiling right next to him would ruin the entire plan. She needed a solution, asap. She was looking down in a serious pout, trying to find another way. Her anxious and worried expression was clearly visible to Raichi, who was right next to her.


    ''''A-Are you¡ª are you okay, Yamada-san?''''


    ''''Oh? Don''t mind me, Sato-kun. I was just thinking of something.''''


    ''''You looked a little troubled or¡­ concerned.'''' Raichi scratched his back, inquiring about her reasons. ''''Are you sure?''''


    ''''I-I''ll be fine!'''' Yaori moved her hands side by side, nervously assuring him. ''''Don''t you worry, okay?''''


    ''''O¡ªOkay¡­'''' Raichi said, slowly lowering his face.


    Something must be bugging her¡­ but what? I hope she is okay¡­


    Oh no! I made him worried¡­! What can I do? Aughh¡­! He is so thoughtful and¡­ even cute! I need something to give him, I can''t give him a blind eye¡­!


    Yaori''s thoughts were cut short, as Ayaka suddenly halted then and there. Their inner turmoil had taken so long that they had already arrived at the station.


    ''''Hey, you two! We''re here.''''


    ''''Whoa¡­! It really is so packed in here, Ayaka-san.''''


    Raichi peered at the area, seeing lots of passersby, some small stalls selling various things, and a line of cafes. In front of them stood the two-sided stairs. Some of the people passing by had briefcases in hand, being workers and salarymen, others luggage, most likely tourists. Some dressed casually, and some dressed in suits, most likely on their way to many of the offices around the city as it was with the rush hour of the morning.


    ''''We better hurry if you ask me.'''' Raichi nodded at the crowd.


    ''''You''re right. Let us be on our merry way.''''


    And so, the sisters and Raichi had made their way inside, sooner or later on a train. Raichi had gaped at the sight, but all he could do was look around for a spot to stand, as time was low. Ayaka quickly led them to a tight spot right next to the pole. The rush hour crowd had let them right next to it. Yaori followed suit, grabbing the pole. However, the proximity had left Raichi''s arm in the air, standing right in front of Yaori''s face, with Ayaka standing behind Raichi.


    ''''Looks like crowded would be an overstatement. We''re gonna have to deal with this for a little bit.'''' Ayaka nodded.


    ''''Th-Thats okay¡­''''


    ''''Y-Yeah¡­''''


    The position in which Raichi and Yaori stood had made proximity between them unavoidable. Yaori''s cheeks flushed slightly as she bashfully averted her gaze, trying not to make too much eye contact. Raichi instead had resorted to closing his eyes, but a sulky serious expression remained on his face, and he too was blushing. It was nerve-wracking for both of them, and both had been coming to different ways to avoid it. Raichi was too busy pretending not to notice, but his gaze kept returning to Yaori. His heart had been pounding like it was nothing. Yaori on the other hand found it hard to look at anything else but Raichi. Her looks turned into gazes as she turned toward him. His overwhelming presence radiated that familiar heat from yesterday. She stole a glance at his face, as he did the same thing. Seeing him blushing as much as she did in that split-second. Nervously biting her lip, trying not to glance at him. This was even more intense than yesterday with the crowd present.


    H-He is extremely close¡­ just like last time! I- I can''t even look at him in the face right now¡­


    I-I don''t want to make this even more awkward by looking, but I can only keep myself occupied for so long¡­


    This is so cute! I''ve got to take a photo of this! Oh Kimura-kun, your plan worked like a charm~!


    As both of them were busy remaining stoic and calm, Ayaka turned her phone silent and took the photo, savoring the moment. She immediately sent it to Hiroshi and looked at her notifications a few minutes later. She could see Hiroshi reacting with a heart emoji.


    The train came to a sudden tight stop at one of the stations, and Raichi tightened his grip, doing his best not to lounge too forward as it did. Even still, he had brought his body even closer than before.


    ''''Are you okay?'''' Raichi asked, his concern evident.


    Yaori nodded, her eyes slowly opening. ''''I-I''ll be fine¡­ thank you, Sato-kun.''''


    Of course, this had to happen¡­! Cursed metro¡­ I''ve made him even more worried, haven''t I?


    That was close¡­ reminds me of yesterday when we were in the park.


    The rest of the journey continued in such fashion, the stolen glances and visible blushes continued. And Ayaka watched every bit of it with a knowing smile, sadistically enjoying the silent interactions as they unfolded throughout.


    When the metro finally arrived at the stop, the three disembarked all together, and the two bookworms took a simultaneous breath in unison.


    Wanting to tease a little and ease the mood, Ayaka said, ''''That was quite the ride, huh?''''


    Yaori could only give her sister a flustered pout, and Raichi followed up by awkwardly scratching his back.


    ''''I guess so.''''


    Oh-~ these two were fated to be main characters in a romantic comedy! Hehehe. Kimura-kun, you could not be any less correct.


    Oh, Sato-kun¡­ I don''t even know how I feel right now¡­ am I relieved, or disappointed¡­?


    Oh, my, god. That was very up-close! I''ve never felt like this with anyone other than Yamada-san¡­ and yet¡ª I don''t even know how I feel right now¡­ am I relieved, or disappointed?


    Luckily for them, the mall was right next to the station they left at. After taking the escalator, it was right in sight. Their left was a normal busy crossroad, and the road to the right led them straight to the mall''s gates. On their way, noon had already arrived, and the weather had gradually turned sunny, despite being kind of chilly. They slowly made their way over to the security entrance, before getting through with their small handbags. Once inside, a pair of escalators and elevators, as well as the shopping floor welcomed them. The floor they were on mostly had clothing and accessory stores and some small food stalls in between, such as a donut stall.


    Ayaka stood confidently, her eyes sparking with enthusiasm. ''''I already know where to go first.''''


    ''''A-And where would that be, Nee-san?''''


    ''''Clothing shopping, duh. I really want to try some outfits on you, Yaori-chan!''''


    ''''W-What?'''' Yaori blinked dramatically. ''''Wait, wait, wait! N-Not in front of S-Sato-kun!''''


    ''''That''s exactly why I want to do it right now!''''


    ''''N-Nee-san, don''t play dress up with me!''''


    Raichi chuckled, watching the two siblings banter. But Yaori''s attempts were in vain, as Ayaka managed to drag her along slowly. Comically being dragged along by the hand, she reached out towards Raichi, asking for a helping hand.


    ''''H-Help me, Sato-kun!''''


    ''''Um- no can do, Yamada-san¡­'''' Raichi chuckled, his arms holding one another bashfully. ''''Plus¡­ I- I wouldn''t mind seeing you try on different outfits¡­''''


    Yaori''s eyes widened as a genuine compliment and curiosity came her way. She timidly turned away, biting her nail, blushing out of her mind.


    Yaori tried to blur out. ''''I-If you say so¡­''''


    W-What did he just say?? H-He w-wants to see me try different clothing? H-How can he casually say something like that?! I-I mean¡­ I''ll try to satisfy him in that case, but still¡­


    W-What did I just say?? I accidentally just spoke my mind without thinking! H-How could I casually and so honestly mutter something like that?!


    With that, the sisters and Raichi made their way inside one of the brand clothing stores, peering through the aisles, with Ayaka taking the lead and deciding for her sister. She picked up whatever she thought would look interesting on her sister, while Yaori watched everything with contempt and a shy expression on her face. In an attempt to reassure her, Raichi put his hand on her shoulder.


    ''''Is everything okay, Yamada-san?''''


    ''''I-Im just¡­ worried for what kind of embarrassing things my sister could pick out. I don''t really want to embarrass myself in front of you like that¡­''''


    ''''It''s okay¡­ you don''t have to feel that way in front of me.'''' Raichi smiled warmly. ''''I''m not here to judge you, y''know that, right?''''


    ''''I know¡­ b-but-''''


    ''''I want you to know that¡­ I''m the one you should be the least worried about being embarrassed to, okay?''''


    Yaori''s breath hitched, and eyes widened, deeply affected by what Raichi had just said. She realized that he was right. He knew most what it meant to be judged, and he would never force that upon anybody else, even if this was some silly dress-up game.


    O-Of course¡­ I shouldn''t have doubted him.


    ''''I''ll make sure to give my biggest compliments, you got it.''''


    ''''B-But that''s the thing!''''


    ''''You heard him.'''' Ayaka came back to poke her sister on the shoulder. ''''And just when we were done, too.''''


    ''''H-How quick are you, Ayaka-san?''''


    ''''If it is a matter concerning my sister, I''m as fast as I can be.''''


    Ayaka presented the box of clothing, all of the pieces stacked accordingly and separately to come together and make an outfit. For instance, a hoodie and sports shorts had been piled together, perhaps something resembling a summer outfit was on Ayaka''s mind, so she took them and put them together. It was clear that Ayaka intended for them to be worn as a team. Yaori hesitantly picked them up.


    ''''Are you sure about this?''''


    ''''Of course! What else do you expect from me, Yaori-chan?''''


    ''''You can do it.''''


    As Yaori stood there, in front of the dressing room, she still felt reluctant to go in, tapping her feet. Until of course, Ayaka pushed her in, comically throwing her inside and closing the door behind her. Inside, she took a deep breath.


    H-Here goes nothing then¡­


    Meanwhile, Raichi and Ayaka were waiting for her outside. Raichi glimpsed at Ayaka, seeing that she was grinning from ear to ear, serious happiness on her face. He recalled back to how organized the box Ayaka put together was.


    She must be good at organizing things¡­


    Ayaka finally opened her eyes, smiling at Raichi.


    ''''Well, you must think how organized I am, Sato-kun.''''


    ''''H-How''d you know?'''' Raichi stood bewildered in response. ''''Y-Yes I did. It is sweet how you went out of your way to help her.''''


    ''''You''re right. But of course, I''d do anything for my Yaori-chan.''''


    ''''... I believe that is something we have in common.''''


    Huh?! S-Sato-kun would¡­ do anything for me?


    This kid sure is good at his words¡­ such a good guy for my little Yaori-chan! I bet he knew Yaori-chan could hear him through that door.


    W-Why do I keep saying my thoughts out loud?! I-It is¡­ true though.


    Ayaka gave him a knowing smile. If Raichi were to be honest, he would just blurt out what he was thinking. Having Yaori hear it was not really the intention, despite Ayaka understanding it that way. Before Raichi could say something else about it, Yaori came out of the dressing room. She had worn the hoodie and sports shorts in the box.


    ''''How do I look?'''' Yaori said bashfully, twirling slowly to glance at herself, walking towards a mirror. ''''U-Um- I found these to be quite comfy¡­''''


    Yaori had worn a light blue oversized hoodie with a cat pattern and gray sports shorts, creating quite the contrast for her pale skin and chestnut hair. She held her hands together, looking down bashfully. The hoodie draped perfectly over her frame, and the shorts looked sporty and casual.


    H-He said he would compliment me¡­ I-I hope it isn''t over the top¡­!


    I-I can''t think of a good enough compliment to say¡­! I''m drawing a total blank here!


    Raichi tried to stammer out his thoughts, as he came up with something on the fly, winging it.


    ''''U-Um- the hoodie¡­ it really suits you. You look quite athletic along with the shorts, Yamada-san.''''


    Ugh! That must have been the most lousy compliment that ever came out of my mouth!


    Raichi shut his eyes in disappointment at his compliment, scared to see and hear Yaori''s reaction. Hearing nothing but silence for a few seconds, he opened his eyes to see Yaori''s hands tugging the hem of the hoodie, her fingers fidgeting with the fabric, trying to maintain her composure. Her mind was racing, paired with her cheeks burning, and the words sinking in. She froze for a moment, unable to say anything.


    H-He was so¡­ brutally honest! It''s not the compliment that was over the top- the way he said it¡­ I can''t keep myself! He''s normally so calm and collected, his poker face has never worn off like this before¡­ but seeing him like this¡ª I can''t even look at him!


    All the while, Ayaka was watching everything unfold, grinning the entire time. The pair of bookworms were too busy mingling with their emotions to even notice her. Ayaka was in absolute awe, blushing as the interaction continued. Yaori tried to steal a little glance at Raichi, only to quickly look down once more, noticing his eyes still on her. Even still, she couldn''t contain her happiness, letting a petite smile slip through.


    To think they''re already flirting like this¡­ I can''t believe it!


    ''''Y-You really think so, Sato-kun?''''


    ''''I-I do.''''


    ''''Well? Which one of the pair inside the box do you want, Yaori-chan?'''' Ayaka asked, still grinning. ''''There are still plenty of teams inside that box!~''''


    ''''No no no! I think I''ve already decided¡­'''' Yaori smiled to herself, looking at the mirror to get a better view. ''''I don''t need anything else.''''


    ''''Are you sure?''''


    ''''Yeah.''''


    Ayaka took the clothing box from Yaori''s hands, and Yaori went back inside to change back into her original outfit, Ayaka wandered off to put the other pieces of clothing she picked up back to where they belonged. Raichi pulled out his phone while he waited patiently, seeing a whole bunch of messages sent by Hiroshi, some of which were just him spamming ''''hey''''. He was asking how the trip was coming along, and one of the questions was,


    ''''how''s the date going?''''


    Raichi put his hand in front of his face, trying to hide his embarrassment. After taking a moment to breathe, he clicked the message and gave it a reaction using the facepalm emoji. Before he could write something else, he heard a voice beckoning him.


    I-Is that- Yamada-san?


    He slowly approached the door, hanging by the wall right next to it.


    ''''D-Did you say something, Yamada-san?''''


    ''''I did. I¡­ wanted to say something.'''' Yaori continued, her bashful tone only hearable to him. ''''Th-Thank you.''''


    Raichi''s eyes widened in surprise and confusion. Awkwardly scratching his back, he said,


    ''''F-For what though?''''


    ''''The compliment¡­ my heart is still fluttering. I-It felt special¡­ coming from you, Sato-kun.''''


    Raichi''s breath hitched as he heard Yaori''s words coming through the dressing room. He stood there, shocked. The pair of women who were nearby shopping were smiling, talking amongst themselves, and looking at Raichi without him noticing. Yaori let out a small chuckle, smiling to herself inside, which Raichi could hear. And he too, couldn''t help but smile. Eventually, he takes notice of the people watching him, and they take that as a sign to leave.


    Can''t do anything without having eyes on us¡­ But I''m glad Yamada-san is enjoying this. Seeing her happy like this makes me feel the same way.


    As Raichi wiped the sweat from his forehead, Yaori came out holding the hoodie and shorts, neatly folded. She put them into the shopping bag. In an awkward moment, the pair of bookworms locked eyes, both quickly looking away.


    ''''Well? If you two are ready, we should probably go to the checkout counter.''''


    And without saying a word, the sisters and Raichi made their way to the counter. On the way, the shelf right next to the checkout would always catch Raichi''s attention. This type of shelf would always have some weird things in it no matter what clothing brand store you would go to. This time was no different, the shelf had many things, some made sense, and others were to catch eyes before checkout and have customers spend even more money. It had an assortment of items such as; water bottles, small toys, socks, purses, hairbands, and what seemed like a collection of novels.


    Oh? I did need something to keep my hair in place when sleeping¡­ I wouldn''t mind buying a hairband¡­


    The shelf seemed to do a good job of gathering attention, as Raichi had already drawn interest in the items on there. Recalling back to his mother''s advice to keep his hair in check, he decided to take one of the hairbands, which happened to be yellow and had some sort of quirky design on it. He turned it over in his hands, thinking the hairband to be a practical and funny solution. As he was about to put it in his bag, he saw the collection of novels, one of which seemed to be very dusty. The cover was rather worn, and the title was barely legible, looking like it hadn''t been touched in god knows how long. Curiosity took over him as he tried to skim through the pages, the dust flying off as he did. Noticing Raichi''s little detour, Yaori called out to him,


    ''''S-Sato-kun, what is that you found?''''


    ''''Oh¡­ just the items on this shelf caught my interest. Like this novel.'''' Raichi showed it to Yaori, holding it up in his hand, grinning slightly. ''''It looks like it''s been sitting here since the dawn of time.''''


    Yaori examined it, taking it from his hand. ''''It- It looks¡­ ancient! Are you sure you want to get this?'''' she asked concerningly.


    ''''...It is pretty tempting, I must say. It could be a diamond among the dirt for all I know.''''


    ''''Hehe. It could be.'''' Yaori chuckled. Appreciating how much fascination Raichi could have with the unusual. ''''I know you''d know something like this best, Sato-kun.''''


    I-I hope that was a well-decent compliment¡­!


    Raichi smiled warmly, slightly turning away with his hand scratching his back. ''''Th-Thank you, Yamada-san, I appreciate it.''''


    ''''W-Wait. Is that¡­?'''' Yaori''s eyes lit up, pointing at the hairband in Raichi''s hands. ''''A-Are you getting a hairband?''''


    ''''Y-Yeah, I need to keep my hair in check. I figured this would be a fun approach.''''


    Yaori glanced at the hairband, biting her lip and then glancing at her own head. She was considering what to say, and whether she should even say it at all, but her heart had been racing in question.


    Sh-Should I really say something so embarrassing¡­? No, I must say it!


    Yaori managed to finally blur out her thoughts, in a whispering tone only Raichi could hear. ''''Um- W-We could be matching, y''know?''''


    Raichi blinked at the sudden suggestion, being caught off guard. ''''M-Matching?'''' He asked. But he smiled once he realized just what Yaori meant. ''''Oh! Well, I- I guess we could¡­ but it looks way better on you than me¡­''''


    ''''D-Don''t say that! Have some confidence in yourself¡­'''' Yaori pouted, looking disappointed and a little frustrated. She put her hands in front of her chest. ''''I- I bet you''d look¡­ adorable!''''


    Right after speaking her mind, Yaori realized what she had said, flushed a deep red, and quickly turned away.


    I-I didn''t mean to say that! I-It is true though¡­ Sato-kun wearing a hairband like me¡­


    W-Would I really¡­ look adorable? If it makes Yamada-san happy, then so be it¡­


    ''''I-If you say so¡­ how about we try it once we sit down somewhere after this?'''' Raichi inquired, offering to try the hairband and looking at it. ''''I wouldn''t mind some help putting it on, I''ve never done it before.''''


    ''''U-Um.- You can count on me, Sato-kun. I''ll make you look the most adorable you''ve ever been!''''


    Little did Yaori know, the face she just made was the most adorable she had ever been, and Raichi could not look at her in the face again.


    I-If you make faces like that how am I supposed to come up with something like that?


    With the blushing and bashfulness left aside, sooner or later they finally left the clothing store, their minds still lingering on the conversation they had minutes ago. But Yaori''s mind was on one thing, Raichi''s hair. After seeing him buy the hairband, she couldn''t help but wonder how it would look on him. An idea came to her mind, but she seemed still doubtful.


    I-I need a few things. I sadly don''t have a 1kanzashi" on me, but I think I can make it work using a chopstick and a bobby pin. I can always play with Nee-san''s hair, but I want to try this on Sato-kun specifically¡­ this sudden will to play with hair is just too much¡­!


    Yaori shook her head, returning to her senses and turning towards Raichi to ask a question.


    ''''Hey, um- Sato-kun, would you mind if I read that novel you have before you?''''


    ''''S-Sure, but be warned, it may not be as good as you expect,'''' Raichi suggested. ''''You''ve seen its condition.''''


    ''''You''re right, but if you see potential in it, I do too.''''


    Ayaka interjected herself into the conversation, spotting something from afar. ''''I think I see a donut stall over there!'''' Ayaka nodded towards the stall containing dozens of donuts of different colors. ''''You two want to get some?''''


    Yaori''s eyes lit up as she faced the stall, her hands in front of her chest, pumped up. ''''I wouldn''t mind¡­''''


    ''''Sure, they definitely look tasty,'''' Raichi remarked, looking down at his fragile body, right as it made a rumbling sound. ''''U-Um- I think my answer is pretty clear.''''


    Ayaka chuckled, her hand on her mouth. ''''My my, you don''t have to say that twice, Sato-kun. Let us make our way then.''''


    As they reached the stall, the three looked on in awe through the small glass, their gazes drifting to the colorful display of donuts. Together, they inspected the array of flavors. Before they gave their order, Ayaka reached out to them, tapping Yaori on the shoulder.


    ''''I have a good idea. Why don''t we each get a donut with two different flavors? Then we could share and get to try more of them.''''


    ''''W-Way to get your money''s worth, Ayaka-san. But I like the idea.'''' Raichi awkwardly scratched his back with an approving smile, his eyes settling on all the half-chocolate donuts, trying to scan for the best one. Eventually, he chose the one that was half covered in strawberry glaze. ''''I''ll go with the strawberry.''''


    ''''I''ll have the blueberry and chocolate.'''' Yaori followed Raichi''s gaze, getting the same flavor as him. ''''Looks like we both got the same flavor, Sato-kun.''''


    ''''Good decision you two,'''' Ayaka said, turning towards the vendor to finally tell their order, smiling warmly. ''''Hello. We will have one chocolate strawberry glaze, one chocolate blueberry glaze, and a regular chocolate donut.''''


    Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on.


    The vendor returned the smile, grabbing the said donuts individually and putting them in separate papers.


    As the vendor handed the donuts to them, he said, ''''That''ll be 800 yen for all three.''''


    Ayaka quickly reached for her purse, smiling and pulling out a thousand-yen bill. ''''This one''s on me you two, alright?''''


    ''''Can we-'''' Raichi tried to protest, opening his mouth. But Ayaka quickly shut him down, waving him off. ''''Ah ah ah, no need to argue, Sato-kun. Consider the donut a treat for being such good company today.''''


    And without warning, Ayaka kindly paid for all three donuts, leaving Raichi unable to do anything about it. Being the unexpected come-along, Raichi felt like he should''ve paid for his own donut. As they walked away from the stall, Raichi glanced over at Yaori, seeing her clutching her donut, seemingly trying to be careful to not smudge the glaze anywhere else, like her fingers. Then, he glanced around for an empty seat nearby. Raichi looked at the plenty of people around, seeing different pastries on their hands. And weirdly, the most intense wafting aroma in the air was the smell of coffee brew.


    I''d be at an even worse spot if I was addicted to caffeine¡­


    Raichi nodded at Ayaka, before nodding at the empty seat he spotted. Understanding what he meant, she said,


    ''''Over there.''''


    With Ayaka taking the lead, the sisters and Raichi made their way through the maze of chairs and seats, careful not to bump into anybody.


    Finally seated, Raichi took a deep breath. But his peace was cut short, as Yaori sat right next to him, and Ayaka across the table.


    T-This is¡­ wayy too reminiscent of yesterday¡­ I''ve forgotten how difficult it was to even get to that position¡­ but this time was instantaneous! I''m sure she''s painfully aware¡­


    I-I just instinctively sat down right next to him¡­ without even thinking! Wouldn''t most people sit right next to their family in situations like these? The fact I did this as my first choice says something! I''m sure he''s painfully aware¡­


    Ayaka had been observing the two before digging in the donut. She now understood that the park visit must have been a difficult pill to swallow. Even if her sister hid the specifics, it was apparent how close they were at that moment just from her way of describing it just a day ago.


    If they are like this right now¡­ I wonder how they even went to the park together and sat down even closer than they are at the moment¡­


    Looking at them, the two were both looking away bashfully and blushing a deep red, most likely recalling back to the moment, wondering how they even went such far distances from their comfort zone that day. Despite enjoying the interaction, the donuts were waiting to be chowed down, and Ayaka decided to push them to it.


    ''''The donuts will get dry soon, go ahead and dig in!'''' Ayaka cheered.


    ''''Th-thanks for the food!'''' Raichi said, before grabbing his strawberry wrapper, and taking a small bite. ''''This is good!''''


    ''''I-I''ll try mine, too. Thanks for the food, Nee-san.'''' Yaori bashfully grabbed her blueberry wrapper, taking a small nibble, trying to not be hasty when eating it. ''''So good!''''


    Raichi looked down on his donut, and then Yaori''s, feeling regretful for getting strawberry instead of trying something new. Being a strawberry enthusiast, he decided not to miss out on more.


    ''''S-Sato-kun, you look like you were going to say something¡­'''' She said, looking over at him curiously. It seemed like she had noticed Raichi''s regretful staring.


    ''''I-I just thought that maybe I should''ve gotten blueberry myself¡­'''' He sighed. ''''I just chose strawberry because it was my favorite flavor.''''


    ''''Y-You can try mine¡­'''' Yaori said bashfully, slightly looking away but still egging Raichi on. She slowly passed it towards him, the donut in her hand. ''''Here, take a bite.''''


    S-She did not even hesitate! I was not expecting her to offer her donut so willingly¡­! This bite is going to be priceless, and I''m not sure if she knows¡­


    I-I genuinely meant to share the donut- but I didn''t take into account how intimate this moment would be!


    For a moment, Raichi found himself hesitating. He wasn''t too opposed to the general idea of eating the same thing someone else had bitten, but this was different. As he leaned forward, he could feel his heart pounding. Their eyes met briefly, Yaori was watching intently, who seemed to be busy blushing herself. The weight of the moment had just beared down on the two of them.


    I-I need to stop overthinking this! It is just a bite, right?


    He tried to assure himself, but the intimacy of the act was unavoidable and undeniable. His heart raced at the thought of biting the same spot where Yaori had just bitten. Taking a small breath, he sank his teeth into the soft dough. The sweet taste of blueberry glaze burst across his taste buds. It was almost like her presence was noticeable on the bite, which sent a shiver down his spine. He finally pulled away, slowly chewing on the small bite and swallowing it, savoring every second. They stole a glance at each other, unable to speak.


    ''''Th-Thanks, Yamada-san¡­'''' He managed to say, his tone a little more silent than usual, pulling away from the glance.


    Wanting to see her direction, he took a glimpse at Yaori''s face, seeing a bright smile, and her rosy blush. His eyes widened in surprise, confused. Raichi pouted down at himself, blushing intensely.


    I-I can''t believe that of all people¡­ I managed to make Sato-kun this happy. If it is true that he doesn''t break his poker face often¡­ the fact that I managed to make him budge makes me so happy, too!


    Raichi hesitated for a moment, questioning what he should do. But without a second thought, he held out his donut toward Yaori, and Yaori''s warm smile quickly subsided into confusion and wonder, as she looked back at the donut in Raichi''s hand, her mouth open in confusion.


    ''''W-Would you like to try mine?''''


    ''''U-Um¡­'''' Yaori tried to raise her finger, perhaps willing to object. But she didn''t have it in her to refuse Raichi''s offer. ''''S-Sure. I-I''d love to.''''


    This is getting interesting!~


    Ayaka smirked, observing without the two of them noticing, as she took even more photos with her silent phone. Her hands were both on her chin, as she watched the two bookworms with great interest. As Yaori leaned in with her soft and eager expression, Raichi tried to keep his composure while watching her. She took a small bite off the strawberry side, her lips brushing slightly against the edge of his fingers. He slightly averted his gaze as he tried to suppress an unexpected blush, putting on his pouty poker face. But his expression still made his embarrassment rather clear. Yaori chewed slowly, casting her eyes downward, her blush from earlier tinging only stronger.


    ''''W-What do you think?'''' He murmured, his neutral pout still on display.


    ''''I-It''s good, Sato-kun¡­ I now see why you like strawberry so much.''''


    Raichi let out a small yet subtle giggle, smiling tentatively. ''''B-But your blueberry was delicious, too.''''


    With that, the duo awkwardly went back to eating their donuts, both of them looking down at the table, not able to look at each other for a little bit. It seemed like they both were too shy to speak any further. Since Ayaka was now facing the two of them, her photoshoot came to a halt. Although, she managed to take one subtle photo, acting like she was going through her phone, but actually taking another silent shot. A cute and intimate photo of the bookworms both bashfully looking down at the table as they chowed down on their donuts, an absolute feast for Ayaka and Hiroshi''s eyes.


    While eating, Yaori''s eyes suddenly widened, recalling back to something.


    I-I cannot combat the urge to play with Sato-kun''s hair! I really want to! B-But where can I get what I need¡­? And should I even say it at all?! I don''t know what to do¡­!


    After finishing her donut, Yaori cleaned her hands and sat there with a bashful and contemplating expression. Even if it was a cute sight, Ayaka couldn''t take seeing her beloved sister like this, so she stepped in.


    ''''Well, do the two of you have any idea for what to do next?'''' She looked at her sister teasingly, playfully raising her eyebrow. ''''I think you might have something in mind, Yaori-chan!''''


    ''''L-Let me think¡­ U-Um¡­'''' Yaori said, thinking to herself.


    ''''M-May I recommend something?'''' Raichi respectfully interjected, bashfully raising his hand. ''''Um¡­ some drinks wouldn''t be too bad¡­''''


    ''''I-I agree!'''' Yaori added in a quick and shy tone. ''''But¡­ may we get takeaway chopsticks from one of the nearby stands?''''


    C-Chopsticks? For what though? I-If she wanted food then she would have said so¡­


    Ayaka blinked in surprise. ''''What will you do with the chopsticks, Yaori-chan?''''


    ''''U-Um-'''' Yaori put her hands behind her back, feeling hesitant to reveal what she planned to do with them. ''''Y-You''ll see!''''


    ''''Well, okay then. I think one of those stalls over there might have one. I''ll go over and get one while the two of you wait here, okay? Don''t get into any trouble!~''''


    ''''O-Okay.'''' The bookworms said in unison.


    And out of nowhere, Ayaka had left them alone. But Ayaka''s last words stung Yaori''s mind. Maybe she was too focused even to realize what she meant, but it still left her in a fit of confusion. But without much to do, Raichi and Yaori were bashfully looking away from each other, their shoulders almost brushing, both of them afraid and embarrassed to let go.


    I wonder what she wants to do with the chopsticks¡­ what could she possibly do with them but eat¡­?


    My goodness, I just can''t keep my own ideas to myself, can''t I¡­? I could''ve asked this to him any other time! I''m sure he would let me¡­ right?


    As Yaori thought over what Raichi might think about it, she randomly started picturing just that. Images running through her mind, the two of them over at their house, as Raichi turned around to let her do some hairdo. Like it was some scene from a romance show. And while all of this was running through her head, she had a bashful and derpy smile on her face, blushing deeply, embarrassed out of her mind. Yaori found it surprising that she had such a cutesy wild imagination, but couldn''t help her thoughts. It seems Ayaka''s warning wasn''t for naught. From Raichi''s angle, the only thing he could see was Yaori''s red ears and face, and he was a little worried that something might come up.


    S-She seems lost in thought¡­


    O-Okay, I think I''ve taken this a little too far¡­!


    She thought as she shook her head rapidly, coming back to her senses and telling herself to essentially stop. After finally shaking off her daydreams, Yaori focused back on the present as Ayaka returned, a pair of chopsticks in hand.


    ''''Here you go, Yaori-chan,'''' Ayaka said as she handed the chopsticks to her sister. ''''Well, it is about time we got some drinks, right?''''


    ''''Sounds good to me,'''' Raichi said, relieved that the topic had shifted. ''''There seems to be a caf¨¦ just around the corner. Why not go there?''''


    Ayaka gave Raichi a warm nod. ''''Good idea. I''ll lead the way.''''


    As Ayaka gave the word, the trio made their way toward the cafe. She sneakily looked back at the two bookworms, grinning, her hands behind her back. The smug grin of hers was fueled by Yaori''s attempt at staying close to Raichi, their hands almost brushing. It was clear her sister was busy maintaining her composure. As they entered the caf¨¦, the smell of coffee brew was rampant in the air, as the doors were kept closed. The tables and seats were slightly away from the checkout, with small televisions for entertainment, as well as fans for cooling near them. Many items such as desserts and coffee packages were on display next to the entrance that caught Raichi''s eyes.


    After placing their orders, the trio sat down in one of the spots in the corner, which Yaori insisted on. Ayaka had opted for a caramel frapp¨¦, Raichi decided on a matcha latte, and Yaori chose a simple iced coffee. As previously, the seating remained the same. Ayaka purposefully sat down on her own, across the two bookworms. Little did she know, that is what Yaori would have done despite her decision to sit there. But as they settled in, so did the weight of Yaori''s subtle plan. Fidgeting with the chopsticks in her hand, she mulled over her way of executing her plan.


    H-How do I go on about this¡­ do I simply tell him to turn around¡­?


    Still fidgeting, she unwrapped her straw and put it inside the plastic iced coffee cup. She stared blankly at the cup, her mouth slightly open and zoned out. Raichi noticed Yaori''s contemptive look, smiling to himself as he also unwrapped his straw.


    I-I wonder what she is thinking about¡­


    Before he could say something, Yaori slightly shook her head and came back to her senses, taking a deep breath as she muttered bashfully,


    ''''H-Hey, Sato-kun¡­ would you mind turning the other way for me?''''


    ''''U-Um, sure, Yamada-san¡­ but,'''' Raichi apologetically said, scratching his back awkwardly and blinking in confusion. ''''Would you mind telling me why though?''''


    ''''I''ll be honest¡­'''' Yaori averted her gaze, looking back and forth, feeling sheepish about telling the truth. ''''I just- I really wanted to play with your hair, Sato-kun¡­''''


    ''''O-Oh¡­ okay. I don''t mind. If you want to style it a little, I would actually really like it.'''' He smiled warmly, nodding, permitting her to do some hairdo. ''''Do your best.''''


    ''''Th-Thank you. I won''t disappoint.''''


    Yaori, her heart pounding, took a deep breath and realized she had to act confidently, despite her nervousness. Glancing down at the chopsticks in her hands, trembling ever so slightly. But Raichi had entrusted Yaori with something as intimate as his hair, and she was determined to make sure she earned the trust. She gathered the necessary tools on the table, the chopsticks in her hands, some bobby pins from her bag, and the hairband Raichi bought earlier. Trying to recall the steps on how to use a kanzashi, she focused on the task at hand.


    ''''Okay, Sato-kun¡­ firstly, I''m going to slightly turn you¡­ this way.'''' She said as she grabbed Raichi on his shoulders and changed his direction like a barber. ''''There. Now let me see¡­''''


    At first, she inspected Raichi''s hair to get a feel of it. It always looked a little unkempt, and after touching it, she could tell that it needed some care.


    S-Sato-kun''s hair is¡­ a little brittle. Why would he not look after it enough? Well, it should be good enough to be knotted¡­


    ''''Chopsticks.'''' Yaori blurted out, softly but also firmly, sounding almost demanding.


    I-Is she asking for me to pass her the chopsticks? O-Okay¡­


    Understanding what she meant, he held out the chopsticks to her, raising his arm behind him. Yaori quickly took them. With precise movements, she used them to deftly section his hair, feeling a mixture of determination and care each time. Despite the act being a little playful, her face remained serious, working with a certain grace. Weaving her fingers through the brickle hair, she carefully gathered it all into a knot at the back of his head.


    ''''Bobby pin.'''' She said, getting a little more confident as she focused even more.


    Without hesitation, Raichi passed her the bobby pin. The way she was demanding the materials was like a mechanic and assistant.


    Using the bobby pin to secure the knot, she ensured that the gathered sections of the hair stayed in place. The bobby pin held the hair comfortably yet tightly, Yaori''s handiwork in full display.


    ''''Hairband.'''' She whispered so quietly that she almost said that to herself, reaching for the final piece in Raichi''s hands. ''''Almost done.''''


    Yaori''s serious pout turned into a playful smile, seeing how smooth the process was going.


    Wrapping the hairband around the knot, she secured it with precise care. She stared blankly at her work, admiring it.


    That felt¡­ satisfactory. It looks so¡­ practical and¡­ I hope cute! N-Now there is one last thing left for me to request¡­


    ''''One last thing¡­'''' She leaned a little closer, her voice barely above a whisper. About to make the final adjustments, she instructed, ''''C-Can you hold out my drink to me?''''


    Raichi, who had already been following every word step by step obediently, amid the intimate moment, accidentally held out his matcha latte instead of Yaori''s iced coffee. Yaori, who was still caught up in her hairdo, didn''t take notice of the matcha taste as she took a quick sip through the straw. However, Raichi realized it a second too late. And had turned red, averting his gaze. But that wouldn''t be for long as Yaori''s hands finally moved from Raichi''s hair to his shoulder.


    ''''Y-You can turn around now¡­'''' She stepped slightly back, smiling softly, feeling a sense of pride. ''''Wh-What do you think?''''


    Raichi slowly turned back towards Yaori, instinctively reaching out to scratch his back, as well as tracing his fingers through the newly done hairdo, feeling the soft and tight knot.


    ''''It feels¡­ s-stunning! You really have a knack for this, Yamada-san¡­'''' Raichi''s eyes widened in surprise, his voice filled with genuine admiration. ''''I love it. Thank you for your hard work.''''


    Yaori blushed at the heartfelt compliment, not expecting it. But she managed to remain calm, smiling warmly, feeling very satisfied with the result.


    ''''I-I''ve always done something like this with Nee-san''s hair, I just really wanted to try it on yours too¡­ thanks for letting me.''''


    Hesitating momentarily, she felt compelled to mention a detail that had just bothered her. ''''S-Sato-kun, you should take better care of your hair¡­ it felt a little¡­ brittle.''''


    ''''O-Oh¡­ I- You''re right.'''' Raichi nodded. ''''I never realized it was that bad, thanks for letting me know.''''


    ''''You better take care of it, okay¡­?'''' Yaori added, a genuine concern on her face.


    ''''I will. I''ll start paying more attention to it.''''


    As they finished their drinks, Raichi came to a realization, promising himself to finally take proper care of his hair. Yaori still hadn''t gotten her fill of admiring her own handiwork, who kept stealing glances throughout the peaceful silence. Ayaka leaned back in her chair, stretching her arms out.


    ''''Well, our trip is almost over. Should we check out the souvenir store?''''


    Yaori snapped out of her thoughtful staring, blinking. ''''Oh! I-I forgot we were supposed to get something to remember the day by¡­''''


    ''''That would be lovely. I wouldn''t mind getting something memorable.''''


    With that, everyone stood up and tidied the table, throwing away the trash where they should be. After leaving said caf¨¨, their next destination was the souvenir store which lay on the other side of the mall. Having to walk the way, Yaori mostly spent it looking at Raichi''s newly done hairdo. She had a smug smile on her face, her prideful side showing as she looked side to side, trying to find where or what spot she may or may not have made a mistake. Raichi watched her, warmly smiling, changing direction as Yaori did the same. She came to her personal judgments, taking notes on where to improve, nodding to herself.


    "It looks good." She confirmed. Although she said it out loud. "I probably could have made the front even better."


    "Y-You think so?"


    The walk continued with Yaori''s watchful eye. But her mind returned to her statement. She imagined herself doing the front just like before, although this time, she would be even closer to Raichi''s face, finding herself imagining such an occurrence. She immediately shook off the thought, blushing to herself, thoughtfully looking down with her eyes closed.


    "Ahem. Sorry."


    Awh! Of course I had to start daydreaming again! I can''t help but not stay still when simply walking¡­


    "So, um- what is your overall opinion, Yamada-san?"


    "I-I think its¡­" Yaori bashfully looked at her handiwork once more, but put on a comforting smile, her eyes glimmering. "Beautiful."


    "I''m glad you think so¡­" Raichi smiled away, his hand scratching his back.


    Ayaka, who suddenly turned back at them, smirked as if to tell them they had arrived. Turning his head, Raichi glanced up at the glowing store sign, then turned his attention down to the items on display behind the window. Some Kyoto traditional, and some casual souvenirs lay inside, all of them carefully arranged insideÒ»


    elegant fans with intricate patterns, rich omamori charms, and neatly decorated delicate boxes of Yatsuhashi all stacked neatly. Raichi''s eyes were glimmering just peeping inside from the window.


    ''''You look quite eager, Sato-kun!''''


    ''''It is that obvious, huh?''''


    ''''I think you should choose what to get, Sato-kun. I-I''d say we should buy a matching pair¡­''''


    ''''...Matching pair¡­?''''


    The idea to buy a matching pair of any kind of accessory was something Raichi was a stranger to. Hiroshi had brought up an idea like this some time ago, which Raichi found to be silly. But when it had so much meaning like this, maybe it was worth trying. Not that Hiroshi''s attempt was meaningless, it was just that it seemed Yaori valued being matching a lot more. Even if the idea was unfamiliar to him, he was willing to at least humor her.


    "Like, a matching pair of cups, trinkets and keychains?"


    "S-Something like that, yes¡­"


    "I-I''m down. Let''s see what we can find."


    Entering inside, Yaori looked around for something that was a pair item but something that could also be a symbol of her gratitude, combing through the wide variety of gifts. Meanwhile, Ayaka jumped straight towards the local specialties, asking one of the workers there to show her all the charms and Yatsuhashi, taking an interest in all of them. Occasionally, Yaori looked back at Raichi, wondering what he was doing, who seemed busy with the selection of small items. She turned her direction at the aisle of items Raichi was looking through, approaching her soon after.


    ''''What did you find, Sato-kun?''''


    ''''J-Just a few small trinkets and keychains¡­ there also seems to be a few bookmarks just under here, too.'''' Raichi crouched down to grab two of the bookmarks. ''''Half of them have a pattern and message on them, and the other half has just a pattern with a wooden square outlining.''''


    ''''Hmm¡­ what if those ones are customizable?''''


    ''''You''d be correct.'''' The employee kindly greeted them and entered their conversation. ''''The one on your right hand is for our special service, which you can carve your own message on.''''


    "They are¡­ custom?" Raichi asked.


    "Exactly. If you are interested in them, you can approach me anytime.'''' The employee stated, turning away to take care of other aisles nearby.


    ''''A-Are you planning on getting it, Sato-kun?''''


    ''''It depends on my budget¡­ I need to check.'''' Raichi said as he dug in his pockets and purse.


    A disappointed frown formed when he rummaged through them, leaving no stone unturned in his belongings.


    ''''L-Looks like I have overspent a little¡­ I sincerely apologize, Yamada-san, but I don''t think I can get a pair¡­''''


    ''''No need to a-apologize, Sato-kun¡­''''


    Raichi threw a fit of dissatisfaction and put his arms together, putting one of his hands on his chin, trying to think of a solution. Perhaps if he hadn''t spent much, he would have been able to get both of them something matching as Yaori wished for, but with the current amount of money he had left, he could not even let alone get something for himself, he thought as he moved the hand on his chin up his whole face.


    Dang it! I should''ve been more responsible with my money¡­ but what can I do now?


    Yaori had been watching it all go down quietly. She felt a pang of urgency welling up deep inside her. Her heart sank slightly as Raichi moved the two bookmarks back on its shelf. Looking back at Raichi''s disappointed smile, she couldn''t take it in anymore.


    Wh-What if he thinks what I am about to do is going overboard¡­? And would he understand what I truly mean to say?


    Yaori was afraid of how this would turn out, perhaps¡ª it would make the entire thing too obvious. But¡ª there was no harm in trying.


    In a rush of excitement and with no thought process behind her words, she blurted out,


    "I-I''ll pay for it!"


    Her voice came out not only faster and louder, but a lot more demanding than she expected, both getting startled as a result.


    Raichi blinked back at her, caught off guard. ''''Y-You really don''t have to, Yamada-san¡ª''''


    ''''B-But I genuinely want to!'''' She interrupted, her heart suddenly racing and heavy,


    Her face turned red as soon as she realized her forceful tone, feeling Raichi''s eyes on her, confused but curious.


    I-I don''t want to be too imposing¡­! But at the same time, would this be enough to make him understand? What if it is too much?


    Yaori was still really indecisive about whether Raichi had noticed her feelings.


    "I-I really want to. Consider it¡­ my treat- to show my gratitude.¡­"


    Raichi became confounded, taken aback by the sudden offer. He hesitated, his lips curving into a soft, curious expression. His eyes softened as he turned to face her.


    His voice echoing, he said, "G-Gratitude? F-For what¡­?''''


    Meanwhile, Yaori was caught up in her reasoning for wanting to get him the custom bookmark, fidgeting with the hem of her skirt, searching for the right words to say. As she kept her gaze down, avoiding to face Raichi, she could feel her cheeks burning. She took a deep breath as she prepared herself for a heartfelt confession.


    ''''U-Um- for¡­ for trusting me- understanding me- on that day.'''' She slightly wiggled back and forth, continuing, slightly raising her gaze from before. ''''No one- other than Nee-san has ever shown me such understanding, and I am¡­ beyond grateful. So, please¡­ let me treat you just this once.''''


    The heavy statement that Yaori just made hit even harder than it seemed. Her vulnerability came across vividly, making Raichi blush. He averted his gaze. Yaori had admitted to how she truly felt, and this just two days old friendship had transformed into something so personal so fast.


    There was a brief pause as Raichi took a moment to process her words, still wide-eyed slightly. He raised his finger and attempted to say something, but cut himself off, simply nodding, understanding her reasons for being so eager to get the bookmarks. He gave her an appreciative, yet gentle smile. ''''If you''re sure, then¡­ thank you, Yamada-san.''''


    A surge of relief swept over her, but her heartbeat was still unstable, racing. Yaori gave an adorable and bashful nod, making her way over to the coworker from a few seconds ago. She was already positive about just what she wanted to write on the bookmark, certain of making it as memorable as possible.


    An idea from yesterday crept right back into her mind, the social media post she had witnessed yesterday. A couple, writing their names on some sort of accessory, in brackets, which led her to imagine such circumstances. Taking it as a reference, she had just the perfect idea for a simple message resembling it.


    Finally determined to see this idea through to the end, Yaori approached the employee from earlier.


    ''''Excuse me, a-about the engraving service on these custom bookmarks earlier¡­ may I take you up on your offer?''''


    The employee nodded back with a friendly smile. ''''Of course! Here, follow me to the counter.''''


    With that, Yaori felt the weight of the situation as she and Raichi were guided along to the counter, clutching the pair of bookmarks in her hands and holding them near her chest. Her heart was racing as it was before¨C not only from her nervousness that was present, but also from the excitement that had just kicked in. There was of course a reason for that, which was only to her knowledge. All that was left to do was to explain it.


    She seems¡­ pretty on edge about this¡­ was this what she was worried about the entire day, I wonder?


    Yaori began speaking softly, ''''I do have a thing to say, Sato-kun¡­'''' She turned slightly towards him, tilting her head, avoiding his gaze as she continued, ''''I hope you don''t mind if I choose the message¡­''''


    Raichi attentively listened to her as she inquired. ''''I-I trust your judgment, Yamada-san. Choose whatever message is to your liking¡­''''


    She gave him a bashful nod as the employee gave Yaori a pen and a piece of paper. Presumably, to write the message on for the employee to engrave. With her hands still shaky, she wrote the message she had in mind on that piece of paper, passing it to the employee along with the bookmarks in hand. The employee smiled warmly as she started the engraving process, which most likely would take a few minutes to finish.


    As Yaori was passing the paper and bookmarks, Raichi couldn''t help but pay attention to the way her hands trembled slightly. As they stood side by side, Raichi''s gaze was fixated on Yaori, the air between them thick with an emotion that was hard to place. Perhaps nervousness¨C perhaps excitement.


    Raichi understood Yaori to be a quiet person, so her being so nervous was something Raichi expected. But, witnessing its extent, Raichi could tell she had something in mind that was evidently embarrassing.


    I wonder what she decided to write¡­ the question hung in his mind, which he dared not ask.


    For Yaori, every second felt drawn out, as she impatiently waited for the bookmarks to be done, the hum of the engraving machine acting as ambient sound to her inner musical that was her mind. Trying to steady her breathing, she fidgeted with the hem of her skirt, twisting its fabric left and right. Her pulse was quickened by the thought of seeing Raichi read the inscription, the images quickly flashing through her head.


    The employee, who sensed the swirling tension, gave them a small, knowing smile.


    A few minutes had passed, and the soft whirring of the machine ceased. Raichi and Yaori watched the employee as she gently took the bookmarks from the machine and turned them over. She turned towards them with a considerate expression.


    ''''One thing¡­'''' she said, her knowing smile now with a glint in her eyes. ''''I may or may not have done something special for these¡­''''


    She paused for a moment, her words hanging in the air as well as Raichi and Yaori''s heads, as the two looked back at each other with curious glances, then back at the employee.


    The employee refused to elaborate any further. Instead, she opted to smile again, pointing at the bookmarks still on Yaori''s hands.


    ''''You see, I swapped the two names on one of them. You''ll understand when you try them soon enough.''''


    Raichi slightly stepped back, puzzled, while Yaori looked back and forth at the employee and the bookmarks in her hand. Both looking indecisive about the employee''s intention.


    ''''I¡ª um, what exactly did you mean by that¡­?''''


    ''''Yeah¡ª I don''t exactly understand either¡­''''


    The employee''s smile slightly widened, without being too direct about it, ''''Just try it on any book you like. Try them both side to side, you''ll see. I think you''ll enjoy this one.'''' she said.


    Raichi put his hand on his chain, tilting his head in confusion and rising curiosity. But trusting the employee''s good intentions, he let it go for now, realizing it was probably a small gesture¡ª assuming it was part of the experience, of course.


    They¡­ look beautiful¡­! I hope Sato-kun likes them.


    She thought as she glanced at him, slowly handing out the bookmarks toward him. ''''H¡ªHere you go, Sato-kun¡­ w-what do you think¡­?'''' she murmured, her voice wavering.


    Raichi slightly hesitated, his fingers brushing against hers and the soft and smooth surface of the wood as he took one of the bookmarks from her hands. He could feel the nervous energy coming from Yaori. He slowly turned the bookmark over, finding his eyes landing on the inscription, reading,


    ''Sato-kun <3 Yamada-san''.


    Raichi''s heart skipped a beat, blinking dramatically, feeling a quivering and familiar yet unfamiliar warmth spreading through him. He stood like that for a hot moment straight, unsure of his feelings. Especially the heart between the names had caused him to flush.


    W-What is this feeling?


    Yaori held hers out right next to his, their hands brushing, and she too, felt that same flutter Raichi was unsure of, as they both looked down at the inscription that read,


    ''Yamada-san <3 Sato-kun''.


    With both of their mouths slightly open, wide-eyed, and cheeks flushing, they came to the realization that this was what the employee meant when she said she swapped out the names. It was such an understated, yet meaningful gesture by the employee. The bookmarks declared one''s affection for the other, an impactful and intimate memo that they could cherish for a long time. Yaori bit her lip, trying her best not to get too overwhelmed.


    Raichi''s gaze shifted from the bookmarks to Yaori, who had been looking at him with an expectant look, noticing her anxious expression. Not willing to keep her waiting any longer,


    ''''Y-Yamada-san, its¡­ wonderful.''''


    Raichi smiled appreciatively, his happiness leaving Yaori mesmerized, relieved that he found it wonderful, as he put it, a satisfied smile tugging at her lips.


    "I''m¡ªI''m glad you like it¡­"


    "I don''t just like it¡­" Raichi iterated, bringing the bookmark closer to his chest, holding it tightly, tears of joy swelling up in his eyes as he looked back at Yaori. Tilting his head in happiness, he gave her a bright smile.


    "Thank you so much, Yamada-san¡­. F-For everything."


    ''''H¡ªHey, wait¡­'''' Yaori anxiously looked up at him. ''''T-That was supposed to be my thank you, don''t you go thanking me back, Sato-kun¡­''''


    Yaori pouted adorably, looking away all embarrassed. Raichi decided to accept it teasingly.


    ''''Fine, fine¡­ but I can''t help but say it¡­!''''


    ''''But don''t!''''


    ''''...No promises.''''


    After a moment of comfortable silence, Yaori spoke up, her nerves bubbling, the silly moment quickly subsiding into romantic tension.


    ''''B-By the way¡­ I''d be really happy if¡­ you kept your hair like this for the rest of the day.''''


    Yaori fidgeted with the fabric, and her other hand twitched against the bookmark as she waited for a response.


    Getting reminded of it, Raichi softly touched the knot on the back of his head, blinking in surprise.


    ''''O-Oh- my hair¡­'''' he murmured, putting his hand that was on the knot now on his back, scratching it, a blush creeping on his cheeks. ''''I-If you want me to keep it like this¡­ then I have no intention of ruining it. Do you?''''


    Yaori gave him a soft nod, her newly acquired bookmark in her clutches. Her eyes soon met his. ''''I-It really suits you¡­ and it would make me elated if you did¡­!''''


    Raichi chuckled softly, having a huge respect for the effort she put into making it look as good as it did. ''''O¡ªOf course! I can tell you put a lot of thought behind it, and I wouldn''t take that away from you. Plus¡­ I love it.''''


    Yaori''s nervous and shy expression had been replaced by a sudden bright smile, overjoyed, her face lighting up. "R-Really!? I-I really appreciate it, Sato-kun."


    Raichi glanced down at the bookmark again, his earlier opinion of matching items being silly had vanished, finding this small gesture to be intimate and significant. Even if he couldn''t properly process what it meant to have such personal value on a common item.


    They stood there for a moment longer, in undisturbed, soothing silence. That is¡ª until Ayaka showed herself again, with a box of Yatsuhashi in tow. Ayaka being herself, the first thing to do on her mind was to put on an impish smile, grinning mischievously as she approached them.


    ''''Hey there you two. Are you guys done with picking out what to buy?~''''


    Before Yaori could say anything, Ayaka held onto her shoulder from behind, looking at her in the face before glancing down at the bookmarks in their hands, her eyes lit up at the sight.


    ''''Matching bookmarks, eh? You sure put such thought at a simple souvenir¡­'''' Ayaka sneakily stared at her bashful sister.


    Yaori''s face flushed a rosy shade. In an attempt to hide her embarrassment, she instinctively pulled the bookmark toward her chest. In a panicky, conviction-lacking tone, she said,


    ''''I don''t¡ª don''t understand what you mean, N-Nee-san¡­''''


    ''''Well, you don''t need to, necessarily. All you need to know is what makes this so special. They aren''t your ordinary friendship bracelets, after all.''''


    ''''N¡ªNee-san?''''


    ''''I mean¡­ just ask what Sato-kun thinks of it.''''


    In a very sudden and abrupt change of topic, both Yamadas stared attentively at Raichi, who scratched his back out of habit, giving them an anxious but reassuring smile. He fixated his gaze on the bookmark, a subtle blush on his cheek.


    ''''I¡­ I guess it''s special. You''re entrusting me with something so priceless. And that tells me that¡­ I should take care of it to my very best.''''


    Both Yaori and Ayaka were taken aback by Raichi''s honest way of telling how he felt. Both of their eyes widened for a split second. But Ayaka quickly brushed it off, using this opportunity to tease Yaori once more, willing to nudge her on.


    This kid''s good faith keeps blowing me away¡­. I can''t believe how people like this just drop into our lives. Especially one of Yaori-chan''s.


    S-Sato-kun¡­ Yaori thought, as she was struck by awe, her mouth wide open, as her blush slowly upped the ante. Until, that is¡­


    ''''That is¡­ a good way of thinking, Sato-kun. You heard him, Yaori-chan~!''''


    ''''N-Nee-san¡­ can you please stop¡­''''


    ''''Okay, okay¡­ I''ll go pay for the Yatsuhashi. Do whatever your heart desires while you wait for me.''''


    What¡ªWhat does she mean by that? The bookworms thought coincidently, as they patiently waited for Ayaka to be done. The day had felt ever-lasting. Raichi struggled to recall the entirety of the events that unfolded. Perhaps it was a little overwhelming at times, but that was because of how fun it truly was. And now¡ª the bookmark in his hands would remain and serve as evidence and memo of a day to remember. His past days had never been so notable. That strange feeling of not belonging had been absent ever since Yaori had entered his life a few days ago. Yaori on the other hand, did not have to meet such high expectations for once, and could be vulnerable around the person she had recently started to confide in.


    <hr>


    Raichi and the Yamadas were already down in the metro station, waiting for their ride to arrive. The chugging sounds of passing trains on the opposite side rang throughout the rather large hall, along with the chatter of people passing by.


    The salarymen and tourists from the morning were still at work or out and about by the time of their return, so the station was much less crowded, with open seats left inside the trains that passed by on the other side.


    A few minutes later, one finally arrived on their side, with Ayaka''s lead, they slowly made their way inside and sat down on empty seats. Yaori sat in the middle, with Raichi and Ayaka to her sides.


    As the train steadily picked up its speed, it moved forward with a low hum. Over time, the inside grew much smaller as more people left than hopped on each stop. It didn''t take long for the murmur of the other passengers to slowly fade away.


    The lulling atmosphere, combined with the gentle swaying of the train was like a cradle, as all the exhaustion weighed down on him, making him even more sluggish, and he could feel it. With how fun the day was, the mental drain had only just hit him.


    Raichi''s eyes grew heavy. He was leaning his head slightly against the warm glass window, the sun''s rays shooting through the window onto the back of his head. But he shifted in his seat, and it was clear he was fighting an inevitable battle against sleep, his head bobbing ever so slightly.


    Raichi''s slow blinking was easy for Yaori to pick up on, her heart fluttered as she did so. She fidgeted with the first thing she could get her hands on, that being the strap of her handbag. She snuck another glance at him.


    Should I¡­ should I say something? A part of her wondered, before making a judgment herself.


    "S-Sato-kun¡­ you look very¡­ sleepy. Are you going to be okay?"


    "Sorry, I just¡­ got a little exhausted, is all."


    "Um¡ªUm, you could¡­" Yaori stiffened, shifting slightly to leave some room for what was ahead. "You could rest for a little bit, I¡ªI dont mind."


    ''''Rest¡­ Rest where¡­?'''' Raichi said drowsily, judging by his mannerism of speaking, he was visibly lethargic.


    ''''On my¡­ my shoulder¡­'''' She muttered, her voice barely above a whisper. She was blushing intensely, looking away.


    Yaori knew that in a way, it was an offer out of kindness and care, but she acknowledged that deep inside, it was also a desire, and she didn''t mind Raichi being close to her.


    Raichi turned toward Yaori in confusion, perhaps because of drowsiness or maybe he understood the unanticipated gesture. But soon enough, his tired glint settled on Yaori''s gentle expression.


    ''''A-Are you sure?''''


    Yaori gently nodded back at him. In an attempt to make it seem casual, she patted her shoulder, signaling him to go ahead.


    ''''I-I really don''t mind. Don''t you think you need some rest after¡­ everything that we did today?''''


    With an awkward silence caused by hesitation, Raichi let out a quiet sigh, giving in to his exhaustion. He gently rested his head on Yaori''s shoulder. Her heart shook from the sudden contact, the intimacy slowly seeping in. His last bit of resistance was worn away by Yaori''s warm presence. However, for Raichi, it was not so much, as he was oblivious because of his drowsy mood.


    Yaori''s body was tense at first, seeing Raichi in such a vulnerable state. His hair fell over his face, and he had fully surrendered himself to Yaori. She was saddened by the fact that she couldn''t really turn to see him, as she would inevitably wake him up. Raichi''s breathing was steadily evening up. Her hands were slightly shaky, but comfortably sitting on her lap. As if time itself was frozen, and in such a fragile moment. Even a tiny bit of movement caused Raichi''s hair to tickle her, his newly done hairdo had finely settled his hair to the back of his head, but the front was touching her neck. She felt thankful for doing the hairdo at this moment, as the undone hair would have easily overwhelmed her. She could feel the weight of his head on her shoulder, moving around as the carriage made its stops and turns. The intimacy was sensitive, yet it soon somehow brought her peace. As the train glided along the tracks, Yaori remained perfectly still, but the anxiety had slowly settled into serene peace. Her heart softened as she listened to Raichi''s slow breathing. His touch had felt more familiar and comforting now, her mind flashing back to the park. She slightly moved her head to look at Raichi, without waking him up of course. Seeing his confiding and peaceful expression, she felt somewhat disarming, but she was happy, unable to contain her petite smile. He was as vulnerable as possible, and his guard was completely down, his normally reserved and usually tense features now relaxed in slumber.


    It¨CIt makes me happy to know he really trusts me¡­ because I trust him, too.


    Yaori quickly looked away, the thought of her smiling as much as she was being fairly embarrassing to her. It was hard to ignore silent elation blooming in her chest, as her inner conscience was likely over the moon, as she suppressed the thought of playing with the strands of Raichi''s front hair, wanting to get a better look on his face.


    Ayaka watched it all go down silently, however, as amusing as it was to tease her sister, there was a time and place for everything, and this was not it. She knew the teasing remarks would be kind of unsaid and uncalled for at the moment. So, respectfully maximizing the usage of this opportunity, she once again took many photos with her phone, keeping them to herself this time around. She glanced briefly at them with a knowing smile. In addition, she shifted slightly in her seat, giving her sister more room to enjoy the moment, leaving everything to operate smoothly.


    I¡­ I think I might shut my eyes myself¡­ perhaps this will be okay.


    Yaori also slightly leaned towards Raichi beside him. And just as she began sinking into the calm, Raichi''s body jolted at the vibration sounds coming from his pocket, the quiet tune loud enough to wake him up. The phone kept buzzing persistently as Raichi picked himself up, and his eyes slowly fluttered open.


    He let out a slight a small groggy groan as he blinked slowly. ''''Mngh¡­ wh¨Cwhat is that?''''


    Yaori had also jumped slightly when Raichi''s warmth suddenly left her shoulder. She cleared her throat, willing to inform the confused Raichi.


    ''''Sato-kun¡­ your¡ªyour phone is ringing¡­''''


    Raichi slowly dug into his pocket, glancing at the screen. He furrowed his brow, as a recognizable name popped up.


    H¡ªHara-chan¡­?


    His mind was still foggy from sleep, and he picked it up petitely, his voice still kind of muffled.


    ''''H-Hello?''''


    The voice on the other end was slightly silent and almost flat, but she sounded practically broken, and it was unmistakably hers.


    ''''Hey¡­ R-Raichi-kun¡­ I¡ªI need to come over¡­''''

 Volume 1; Chapter 7; Inevitable Confrontation With Unexpected Rumours

    Raichi waved goodbye to the Yamada sisters, putting on a wry smile. His heart was still warm from all the activities they did today. However, following his phone call, he felt a foreboding sense of dread droop over him. Hara''s request to come over was echoing in his mind, and his concern grew by the second. Her voice was¡­ flat, devoid of the cheer and hope it always had. This was not an unfamiliar sight, however. But something was evidently wrong, and his stomach tightened just thinking about it.


    I just can''t shake the feeling that¡­ she needs me, badly.


    The more he thought about it, the more worried he got. He slowly picked up his pace, eventually sprinting, determined to not let another second go to waste. Hara was always strong¡ª but that was only what was on the surface. Raichi knew her long enough to recognize when she would be hurting. His heart was racing at the thought.


    She¡ªShe must be waiting somewhere already! I need to get there, now! I think I might know exactly where she is¡­


    He ran, ran, and ran. Finally turning the corner, and there she was, slowly coming into view. She was exactly where he thought she would be, right by the entrance to his street. Her figure was small, and she was slightly hunched over, the situation most likely weighing down on her shoulders. The pale glow of the sunset cast a shadow from above, her tears illuminating barely from where he was approaching.


    ''''Hara-chan!'''' He shouted, his voice cutting through the stillness, laced with concern.


    Hara slowly lifted her head, their eyes meeting. Raichi''s heart tightened, seeing Hara in such a sorry state. Her omnipresent happy energy was nowhere to be seen, replaced by an expression of gloom. The tears she didn''t bother to wipe away slipped down her cheek, her eyes red.


    Raichi immediately rushed to her, stopping in his tracks as he came up to her. Before he could tend to her, she spoke up.


    ''''R¨CRaichi-kun¡­''''


    There was a brief pause, and Raichi took the initiative.


    ''''Hara-chan¡­'''' He said softly, putting his hand on her shoulder. ''''What¡ªWhat happened? Why would you wait here¡­?''''


    Hara sniffed. Sheepishly looking down on the ground, hugging her arms.


    ''''I just¡­ didn''t know where else to go¡­''''


    Raichi moved his hand on her back, gently holding her as he signaled her towards his house. ''''C¨CC''mon. We''re going inside. Tell me everything.''''


    She obediently did as she was told, as Raichi guided her to the Sato household by the end of the street. Before they reached there, Hara had something to say.


    ''''Wait¡ª Wait a second!'''' She put her hands up, telling Raichi to stop. ''''I¨C I don''t want a sweet lady such as Emiko-san to see me like this¡­ please lead me to your room immediately after we enter inside¡­''''


    ''''If¡­ If that is what you ask of me, then I suppose it''s fine.'''' Raichi nodded. ''''Although¡­ I want to know every detail once we are in my room, and that''s an order, I hope you understand.''''


    ''''You got it¡­''''


    <hr>


    With Raichi taking the lead, he guided Hara to the path to the house. The household''s front door creaked open to the welcoming warmth of home. Raichi couldn''t help but glance at Hara occasionally, his heart still heavy with worry. She was hugging herself in a way that was meant to hold herself together, like a vase beginning to crack.


    <hr>


    Inside, Emiko had been busy tidying up the shelves, a TV show turned on in the back for ambiance. Her eyes lit up as she saw the two take off their shoes. Raichi assumed his dad must be somewhere else, as he''d usually be the one in possession of the TV.


    ''''Raichi dear! Hara-chan! What a pleasant surprise, you''re back!'''' Emiko put the items back in place and smiled cheerfully at them. ''''Aren''t you a little late from your trip, though? How did it go?''''


    Raichi flinched immediately. The realization hit that his mother was under the impression that the three-person outing with the two of them and Hiroshi was their reason for being so late.


    He was thinking of how to respond, but before he could, he felt Hara''s shoulders tighten and tense beside him. Her eyes darted to the floor, bamboozled. This ''''trip together'''' of theirs only added more fire to the strain on Hara''s state. It was clear to Raichi that Hara hugged herself even tighter in response.


    Raichi took immediate intervention. ''''Um¡ªYeah, even if there were some changes, we''ll be up in my room for a bit, is that okay Mom?''''


    Emiko blinked, taking notice of the tension''s presence but not intending to push it any further. ''''Of course, dear. I''ll be here if you need anything.'''' She said kindly, gazing slightly at Hara for a moment longer before quickly returning to whatever she was doing.


    Raichi softly nudged Hara along the stairs. Her steps were slow and trembly, and her voice and breathing were slightly shaky. It was obvious she was rattled by the conversation that just took place.


    As they entered inside, Hara took in the familiar surroundings of Raichi''s room. Back in their old house, his room always had a faint, unique scent that reminded her of all the memories made inside. This was the first time she had entered Raichi''s new room, or even new house for that matter. She recognized the furniture among other things. She stood there hesitantly momentarily, before quickly sitting down on the carpet, her knees pulled to her chest. Seeing Hara so¡­ defeated, Raichi''s chest tightened. He softly closed the door behind them, finding his place in front of her.


    Hara stared at the floor, her thoughts clattered and distraught. Her voice managed to break free, however.


    ''''Hey¨CRaichi-kun¡­ that trip Emiko-san mentioned earlier¡­ what did she mean by that? We were late¡­ how?''''


    Raichi blinked, processing her question and realizing what she was saying. Hiroshi hadn''t told Hara of their plan, or would-be plan, that is, and it slightly got on his nerves. To intentionally name-drop someone without even informing them seemed like something disingenuous, even if he never intended for Hara to find out.


    Dang it, Hiroshi-kun! Breaking this news to her will just make her crumble even more¡­! What can I even do about this?


    Raichi fumbled for what to say, eager to keep the pain minimal. His fingers clenched slightly, not only out of frustration but also guilt. He let out a small sigh. Coming to the decision that being candid and telling her the truth was the only acceptable and best path ahead despite being a little harsh.


    ''''How¡ªHow do I say this¡­?'''' He fidgeted with his fingers. ''''Hara-chan¡­ we kind of had this plan of ours¡­ you, me, and Hiroshi-kun were supposed to go the mall today.''''


    Hara''s eyes widened and her lips parted slightly. She silently kept her attention on him, letting him continue.


    ''''But it seems¡­ Hiroshi-kun didn''t inform you, because¡­ he had different plans. I couldn''t really understand why myself¡­''''


    He fixated on the ground, unable to raise his head out of remorse. ''''He wanted to¡­ have me hang out with Yamada-san.''''


    Hara was left agape, her heartbreak only making Raichi''s heart ache harder, the hurt flashing on her face. She tried to mask it, her success up to debate, the tension swirling further.


    ''''Y-You¡­ You''re saying I¨CI wasn''t part of the plan¡­?''''


    ''''N-No! Of course not!'''' He rapidly shook his head in response. ''''It wasn''t like that¡­ even to my knowledge, it wasn''t. Hiroshi-kun set it all up as an act. By telling me that we''d be going to the mall, he got me to encounter Yamada-san and her sister. I''m¡­ I''m sure you can tell what happened next¡­''''


    Hara hugged her knees even tighter, fighting her emotions, her gaze fixating back on the floor. A long silence settled in, a heavy, long silence. Raichi couldn''t afford to look at her straight in the face, feeling concerned that he hurt her even further.


    Hara managed to raise her voice again, slightly raspy. ''''So you''re saying¡­ you¨Cyou spent the day with them¡­ while I¡ª!''''


    Her words trailed off. To Raichi''s dismay, he didn''t know of any way to fix this. This wasn''t one of Hara''s usual cries for comfort, ones that Raichi was used to, as he always knew how to be her confidant where it was needed. He felt a pang of guilt for his incapability, he could only stand there in regret.


    Th-That jerk! Why would you mention her name like this, Hiroshi-kun?! I-I¡­ I suppose I can''t blame him too much, considering he wouldn''t know that I''d inform Mom of our outing. But still¡ª!


    But just then, Raichi raised his face to the frail sounds of Hara hiccuping and her shaking breathing, bewildered. Her eyes finally gave in to the pressure she had been suppressing, and her floodgates opened. Tears silently fell onto her knees, and the floor, and trailed down her face. Every other second, her breath hitched. Raichi could see her shoulders as the embrace of her knees turned even tighter. Her breathing grew more uneven with each passing second.


    Raichi attempted to reach out, the slimmest chance at comforting her. Before he could, however, Hara spoke up in between her hiccups.


    ''''You¡ªYou were out there in the¡ªmall, while I¡ª'''' She tried to wipe her tears away, futile however it seemed. ''''While I¡ª had to see my boyfriend¡ª dumping me in front of my eyes¡ª!'''' She choked out.


    Seeing Hara like this was¡­ daunting for Raichi. She spoke in such a raw tone, a clear mixture of indignance, sorrow, and heartbreak. Everything she had been holding back rushed up to the surface in an overwhelming outcry.


    Her tears started to fall faster and harder, her entire body shaking. She couldn''t hold it any longer. Hara immediately limped forward, landing softly on Raichi''s lap.


    She didn''t make any effort to get back up, oppositely, she buried herself into his lap in a tight embrace, her continuous sobs blurred out by the fabric.


    Raichi''s heart pounded, he stood there, his hands helplessly up in the air. He fretted over the right words to say. Thinking that his inability to support her inadvertently led to this, he clutched his fists in disappointment.


    Should I have just¡­ not told her of what happened at all¡­? I¡ª I guess it is too late for that now¡­ Perhaps the best thing to do right now is to simply¡­


    Raichi thought as he placed his hand on Hara''s back, gently rubbing her as she kept sobbing, hoping to alleviate her pain.


    ''''Hara-chan¡­ I''m¡ªI''m so sorry¡­ I''ll be here, so don''t you worry, okay?'''' He said solemnly.


    He was clueless as to what else he could say. But just maybe, his presence was more adequate than mere words of comfort. Her trembling body shook not only Hara but Raichi, too. But she clung to him anyway. Raichi didn''t want to let her down. It hurt him deeply to see his best friend so heartstruck. He didn''t want any more of it to linger.


    Raichi continued to comfort her, maintaining his gentle strokes on her back, as Hara''s sobbing slightly lowered its volume, which was probably a good sign. But her looming sadness still pressed him, urging him to keep it up.


    Minutes passed, yet it felt like hours. Raichi glanced at the window, looking at the world outside, swallowing hard. He sat there patiently waiting for the moment to rest, quietly.


    <hr>


    The next morning, Raichi was making his way down his neighborhood, alone this time. Leaves were being blown around, and other students were making their way to school around him. He actually had willingly let down Hiroshi''s request to walk together on this occasion. Hara had personally opted to walk on her own today, perhaps to put her emotions back together. He still couldn''t get over what happened yesterday, it all left a mark on him that he wouldn''t be able to put off for a while. His steps were slightly slow and heavy, the memories from yesterday replaying in his mind, tightening his shoulders. In the distance, a certain flowy chestnut hair was watching Raichi walk by.


    Even if Raichi hadn''t taken notice of her watchful eye, Yaori was also walking to school, and couldn''t help but have concerns for Raichi, who didn''t have company with him this time. She stood by the street corner, finding it unusual for him to be by himself. She had witnessed their chatting first-hand. Even in the background, Raichi would be within the moment. But Yaori was able to recognize the difference in his demeanor by now, the past days nurturing their growing bond. His walk was subdued, slower, and weighed down.


    He had told me about his friends before¡­ Hiroshi-kun and¡­ Hara-chan, I think? But where are they¡­? Yaori thought, furrowing restlessly. I can''t help but assume something bad took place¡­


    She stood there for a while longer, contemplating whether she should keep him company, barely noticing the strong wind pushing against her hair. Some part of her thought that she would be intruding on his alone time, considering his appreciation for alone time, but if that were to be the case, he wouldn''t appear so tense and distant, she figured.


    W-Would he be okay with me joining him?


    In the end though, she couldn''t ignore the small urge inside of her to check up on him, to make sure he was okay. She bit her lip, gathered enough courage and sped up towards him, walking a hefty distance behind him, slowly closing that gap until she was near enough to call out to him.


    ''''S¨CSato-kun?'''' She called out in her usual soft tone.


    Raichi slightly slowed down, glancing over his shoulder. His slightly bewildered expression subsided into something more gentle and welcoming.


    ''''Y¨CYamada-san¡­'''' He said, blinking a few times, as if to confirm she was really there.


    Yaori fell into step beside him. Their footsteps tapped in sync as they walked. She turned towards him, smiling petitely.


    ''''Good morning¡­''''


    ''''M-Morning¡­'''' He said, gazing the opposite way shyly, which didn''t go unnoticed by Yaori.


    ''''I see that¡­ you aren''t walking with your friends today, did¨C did something happen?'''' She looked up at him in concern.


    ''''U¨CUm, I guess you can say that¡­ not today. Something came up.'''' He responded vaguely, but Yaori didn''t want to pry, so she didn''t push for more details. She nodded. Judging from the days she had spent with him these past days, she was able to deduct that it was one of those days that he needed some space, but she couldn''t exactly tell whether he''d say no to her company.


    ''''If¨CIf it is alright with you¡­'''' She inquired, her gaze fixed ahead. ''''May I join you?''''


    Raichi glanced at her, a little surprised. But he felt comforted by her reassurance.


    ''''I¨CI''d like that. Thank you.''''


    They comfortably walked alongside for a little while, occasionally darting his eyes toward the other students across the street, sensing some sort of whispering among them. But at the very least, the comfortable silence that came with walking alongside Yaori gave him a sense of peace. The distant chatter of the students, however, was a familiar sight that he just couldn''t shake off. He could tell their mindless murmurs had turned into staring. Raichi knew Yaori''s familiarity with such sight, and he was, too. Almost too familiar. He''d been through this before. The thought hit him like a punch in the gut.


    I''d expect nothing less from people who have nothing else going on in their lives¡­ They''re staring, of course.


    Raichi hadn''t realized it, but he had been inadvertently getting frustrated, and it visibly showed on his face. His steps faltered for a moment, their footsteps getting out of sync. His past was recalled back in his mind, reflecting like a broken mirror, playing like a broken disc, in fragmented flashes. The sting of rejection, ignorance, and ridicule still present in his mind. Every watchful pair of eyes felt like the reopening of a wound. But he told himself to be strong, to ignore it. The pinnacle of resilience lay right next to him, after all. The ''''Acing Bookworm'''', at the top of her class, never yielding under such curious gazes. To his knowledge, she dealt with this every day. But today, something about those so-called curious stares was a little off.


    ''''S¨CSato-kun? A¨CAre you okay?'''' Yaori cut the silence in concern, giving him a sidelong glance. ''''You seem a little¡­ disappointed.''''


    Raichi''s eyes widened slightly, suddenly pulled away from his thoughts. ''''Oh¨C sorry, Yamada-san¡­ I was just¡­ lost in thought.''''


    Yaori quickly glanced around, before turning back towards him.


    ''''Have you¡­ noticed what I have, as well?''''


    ''''A¨CAre you¡­ talking about the curious people around us?''''


    ''''Yeah, you''ve clearly realized it, too.''''


    Raichi swallowed hard, his heart pounding in his chest at the realization.


    ''''Well, you are a lot more used to this, are you not?''''


    Yaori sighed, continuing with an understanding expression. ''''Well, it just happens. Expectations bring with it attention. But¡­'''' Her face turned slightly sour. ''''Something is¡­ wrong with them this time. I think that¡­ they''re not only staring at me, but you too, Sato-kun.''''


    Raichi''s stomach dropped at Yaori''s words. He had paid attention to the ramped-up stares, but the statement coming from Yaori''s mouth pretty much confirmed his assumptions. They weren''t just curious as to what Yaori was doing, but scrutinizing and suspicious, about who she was with.


    Curses.


    He fixated on the ground, clenching his fists, suddenly feeling self-conscious and doubtful. He tried to mutter under his breath,


    ''''Of course they are¡­ after all, a nobody transfer student like me hanging out with the ace beauty of the class, it''d be out of the ordinary if people didn''t get¡­ suspicious. It was¡­ bound to happen.''''


    Yaori''s eyes widened at Raichi''s condescending words, in a serious frenzy, she said.


    ''''D¨CDon''t say that¡ª! Sato-kun¡­ you''re not a nobody¡­ people might be curious, but that doesn''t decide whether you belong or not. I¡­ appreciate your company way more than you think.''''


    Raichi felt like his throat tightened, he wanted to believe, but his biggest insecurity still gnawed at him, every whisper, murmur, and glance made him feel like he was being judged, praying on his downfall. He forced a chuckle, trying to shake it off.


    ''''I guess so¡­ but I''m still kind of a stranger to all of this¡­'''' He hesitated, his gaze still fixated on the ground. ''''People judging me¡­ as if I was on trial¡­ I''ve been through it before. It''s never been good.''''


    The last part slipped out of his mouth before he could stop himself. He didn''t wish to bring Yaori into his mess, but the reality of it was that he was terrified, terrified of what could and was to come.


    Yaori glanced at him, her concern for Raichi hidden under a softening expression. She didn''t push for more, sensing the heavy fragility behind what he meant to say.


    ''''I see¡­''''


    And with that, the weight of Raichi''s history was hanging between them unspokenly. That same pressure kept them silent for until they were within sight of the school gates. A chilling sense of dread loomed over him, crawling up his spine. However, he wasn''t so alone this time.


    <hr>


    Raichi and Yaori entered the classroom, and both of them could already see the focus shifting to them. He realized they had only fed the gossip more by entering the class together, as if putting on a show of display for all the gossipmongers to see.


    With his gaze straight ahead and his head slightly tilted, he sat down on his desk, and Yaori followed suit, as the class''s attention moved back to whatever they were doing.


    Raichi watched as Yaori began unpacking her books, putting each material down one by one. She brought out one of the books she had been reading. As she opened the page she was at, the bookmark she used to show what page she was at made a slight sound, falling onto the ground. It fell right by one of her classmates'' feet, touching it before twirling in its place, plummeting onto the ground, facing upwards at the classmate, the text on it open wide.


    Oh no¡­!


    The classmate who had seen it fall by him curiously picked it up. His eyes lit up for a split second, but it was short-lived, as the ugly head of his smirk reared itself.


    '''' ''Sato-kun <3 Yamada-san''... huh. Didn''t know the class ace and the transfer were so close!'''' The boy said, his voice had way more volume than the morning chatter the rest of the class had, as most of the classmates nearby turned their heads towards him and the item on his hand.


    It seemed like the center of attention had found itself. The sharp sounds of a few desks turning rang throughout the room, the atmosphere in the room had suddenly shifted.


    W¡ªWhy¡­ did it have to be now? I¨CI refuse to see this happen again!


    Raichi''s heart dropped, and he entered a sudden state of shock. Yaori had an obvious concern on her face, arm lifted towards where the classmate stood, unable to say anything.


    ''''Guess it just shows the rumors were based on something after all¡­'''' The boy teased with glee, as the classmates soon started to approach them instead of watching from the sidelines.


    Y¡ªYamada-san! Is she¡ª?


    Raichi immediately turned towards Yaori, seeing her body so tense, her hand shaking as it gripped the seat tightly, her face drained of its color. The painful sting that came with seeing her suddenly trapped in a corner, was unbearable. It hurt him as much as it hurt her to see her this way.


    Some of the classmates had snickered, as their unintelligible whispers filled the room, but some had resorted to confronting the duo head-on, asking questions like some sort of news reporter, as if a group of hungry animals had circled their prey. Some had different intentions, while some were just curious. However, probably the worst of all the voices clashing was¡­ the ones filled with jealousy, and spite, coming from those who had failed to connect with the Acing Bookworm. Even so, the detriment that came from those who were suspiciously eager to learn and those with malevolent envy weren''t that far off. After all, curious or spiteful, this was not intended info for the whole class to know.


    ''''A¨CAre you two a thing now, Yamada-san?''''


    ''''They do say opposites attract each other¡­ didn''t know you bagged the transfer student so early on, too!''''


    ''''Hey! That''s not fair¡­ how''d someone like you break through her silence, anyway?!''''


    Raichi felt his body freeze at the words that he could somewhat make out from all the commotion. His entire body was racing, trying to get a grasp on the situation. This¡ªThis can''t be happening! He tried to make believe, to convince himself this was all just a nightmare. But no, it was reality, and it was all caving in his chest. He struggled to breathe, pinching himself in an attempt to wake up, as futile as it was. His chest tightened, and the reality sank itself in. He was frustrated beyond relief. This type of occurrence had left in him familiar wounds, now scars serving as a memory of what once took place. He was somewhat used to this, and as he glanced over to Yaori, he saw her pale knuckles, shaking, her face getting redder and redder. It all got deeply under his skin, crystallizing his decision. He was not going to let the comments go on any further¡ª not to Yaori. She''d done nothing to warrant this scrutiny. She just wanted to keep to herself, and while doing so, she succeeded in her classes, which drew senseless attention to her. If anyone was going to be under the influence of the questioning and take the fall, he''d bear it for her. Hara''s helpless crying echoed in his mind, reminding him of what he had failed to do.


    I couldn''t see Hara-chan''s struggle and help her out¡­ I won''t let Yamada-san fall under anything on my watch! Even if I have to face what has haunted me for years, I will not hesitate!


    The questions and snide remarks closed around him. Some were overwhelming and relentless, some condescending and contemptuous, and some merely eager to learn. The way Yaori and him were reacting was a testament to the stress that was washing over them. Everything that led to this spurred him forward, as he sprung into action, out of his seat, his palms clenched.


    He rose up to face the crowd, the crowd that was badmouthing him right in front of him. He didn''t bother to gather his thoughts, willing to say whatever was on his mind.


    ''''Think whatever you want,'''' he lowered his voice, his eyes piercing through the gathering, unwavering. He suddenly stopped the tension in the room, as everyone turned toward him in disbelief. ''''If this is all you''re interested in, fine. But leave Yamada-san out of it. I don''t have a thing to say to whatever rumors you have in mind¡ª I don''t care. I was the one that suggested getting the bookmarks.''''


    The room was stilled, and his remark echoed throughout the room. But, to his dismay, it didn''t work as intended. Some of them slightly shook in place, but the looks of envy and scorn now turned his way, as the ones who were just curious about the circumstance had been silenced by his standing.


    ''''Oh? Bookmarks, you say? So you have matching little trinkets?''''


    That line especially hit him like a square punch to the gut. Every little thing about the bookmark had turned into contemptuous and outright insulting words, which now mainly targeted him. Being a closed-off transfer student with little to no familiars in the classroom made things even worse for him, as all the remarks were judging a book by its cover.


    ''''So you''re calling the shots, aren''t you Sato-kun?'''' One of them sneered. ''''Pretty bold of you, the ''new guy'', to claim on Yamada-san in such a manner.''''


    His stomach churned even further with each passing joke, banter, and conceit. He was now getting even more isolated, their once-twisted tones of jealousy were now biting down on him as insults. At this point, he just couldn''t take it, he had become dismissive to the comments around him, his vision was blurring, the voices were getting muffled, losing his sense of self, as eigengrau was seeping through his vision, looking like he was about to collapse right where he stood. He had only amplified the tension, aiming it at himself. Yaori was looking at him like she was about to break down, seeing his sorry state, her hands in front of her mouth. Tears were leaking through, but she too was helpless, all she could do was watch. Each jab struck him hard, his upright tone now crushed into silence as if he was food being played on, the world narrowing around him. His legs felt weak beneath him. He held his hands up his head, trying to hold himself in one piece. He was slowly drowning in the endless red sea of gossip.


    This¡ªThis room¡­ is¡ªis about to swallow me whole¡ª Im¡ª! I''m so sorry, Yamada-san!


    Raichi thought, standing there hopelessly, about to give in to the last bit of understanding he had.


    Just then¡ª a familiar voice cut through the haze. His glimmering blonde hair swirled as he entered inside.


    Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work!


    ''''Oi! What''s all this commotion about?!'''' He yelled. His usual laid-back self was seemingly absent, looking a lot more serious.


    Another familiar blue gradient subsequently entered the room right after him. It was Hiroshi and Hara. As soon as his eyes landed on the sight of Raichi and the circling murder of classmates, his eyes widened, and his heart sank. But he quickly brushed it off, putting himself back together.


    ''''Hey now. That''s enough, don''t you think, Makoto?''''


    ''''Oh? Didn''t expect to see you here, Hiroshi.'''' Makoto quipped back at him. ''''You know this guy?''''


    At Makoto''s words, Hiroshi felt a frustration creeping up behind him, and he almost broke his calm smile, subtly gritting his teeth, before getting back to normal. Hiroshi vented his frustration by clenching his fists behind him.


    ''''Whether I know Sato-kun or not¡­ it is not okay to gang up on someone like this. Let this go, and give Yamada-san her bookmark back.'''' He demanded, edging his frustration again. ''''Now.''''


    Right next to him, Hara, had drifted her gaze towards Raichi and Yaori. Her eyes widened to the horror of a Raichi who was shaking, pale, and his hands on his head, looking like something straight out of a nightmare. Yaori was also standing there, helpless and pale, still holding her hands together, her eyes evidently soggy.


    The whole class froze, bewildered. Most had settled down. However, Makoto and his group of friends seemed like they wouldn''t back down. Hiroshi felt a cold sweat break out on his forehead, staring down at Makoto and his buddies, now furrowing. Makoto''s hand, which had held Yaori''s bookmark, clenched.


    ''''You know it''s not for you to play around with. Let the two breathe, would you?''''


    ''''Oh, don''t be playing the hero now, Hiroshi. You can''t blame us for being curious!'''' Makoto said, but it clearly fell on deaf ears.


    ''''Being nefarious would be more like it.'''' His voice was steady, and firm.


    ''''Uhh¡ª!'''' Makoto blinked, caught off guard by Hiroshi''s direct approach. ''''But¡ªBut you''ve gotta admit they''re hiding something!''''


    ''''I agree. We''re not kids, we know what we saw.''''


    ''''Yeah. There is no way they''re just reading buddies.''''


    ''''See?'''' Makoto added to his friends'' argument, looking slightly nervous.''''I mean¡­ it''s just obvious, is it not?''''


    Suddenly, another voice cut through the crowd from the door, irking them out.


    ''''Obvious to whom?'''' Haruki shouted from where he stood, narrowing his eyes. ''''Why are you projecting things, anyway?''''


    Silence stilled the classroom, as Haruki fully approached where the classmates were, his footsteps loud and clear as he stood by Hiroshi''s side.


    ''''What? Cat got your tongue? Don''t be acting all scorn to Sato-kun for no reason. That''s not being curious, that''s approaching the guy with the ill intention of interrogating him.'''' Haruki pointed at him,


    directly calling Makoto out for his irony. ''''And don''t even get me started on you not even considering how Yamada-san feels about you ganging up on someone close to her. You think she likes watching this right now?''''


    Makoto looked over at Yaori, who was busy holding her tears back, apprehensively avoiding eye contact. He reluctantly walked over to her, handing out the bookmark, guiltily looking down as he did.


    Yaori slowly raised her head, using one hand to wipe away her tears, and another to anxiously grab the bookmark back from Makoto, her body shaking. She held the bookmark close to her chest.


    Makoto''s friends gradually sat back down in their seats along with him, and the tension distilled, almost entirely dissipated. If it wasn''t for Haruki''s commanding presence, the situation was likely gonna go south.


    As the class went back to however it was supposed to be, Raichi sensed his vision returning to him, finally putting his arms down, and taking a deep, shaky sigh of relief. He sat down, almost limp, finally able to cool his head.


    What¡ªWhat¡­ just happened¡­? He aimlessly looked into the distance.


    Yaori glanced towards Raichi, quickly getting up from her seat, and offering Raichi a hand. She uneasily looked down at him, still shaken.


    ''''L¨CLet''s get outta here, Sato-kun¡­''''


    ''''She''s right, buddy.'''' Hiroshi put his hand on his shoulder, signaling him to take a breather. ''''C''mon. You need to rest after all that, and ain''t no way are you gonna do that here right now.''''


    Raichi looked back at him, still in a daze. He nodded weakly.


    ''''You''re¡­ right.'''' Raichi said, grabbing Yaori by the hand. The two followed Hiroshi''s lead out of the classroom. He kept looking at the hand he was holding as he pursued them outside.


    <hr>


    The three of them left the classroom, and Haruki and Hara followed. As they left, Raichi could feel his emotions building up. He felt¡­ grateful, exhausted, and relieved. It was finally over. By the time they reached the hallway, Raichi couldn''t bottle it up anymore.


    ''''H¨CHiroshi-kun¡ª!'''' He yelped out, his voice cracking. And before he knew it, he had thrown his arm around Hiroshi in an embrace, choosing Hiroshi as his outlet.''''I¡­ I was this close to¡ª! This close to¡ª''''


    ''''There there¡­'''' Hiroshi returned the hug as he patted him on the back, momentarily surprised by the gesture. ''''It''s okay¡­ I''ve got your back.''''


    ''''Th-Thank you¡­ thank you so much, Hiroshi-kun¡­''''


    Raichi didn''t let go. The words were stuck in his throat. He had too much to say. But for the first time in what felt like forever, he didn''t have to face all the scrutiny alone. Hiroshi and Haruki stepping in had saved him from being crushed under the weight of the contempt some classmates seemed to hold towards him. Yaori''s heart was swelling with relief and gratitude as she watched the two friends hugging. She was still concerned for Raichi''s well-being, however. She tried to say her thoughts, as Haruki came back from observing inside of the class. He had his arms crossed, satisfied.


    ''''Take it easy for a bit. No need to rush back in there, okay?''''


    ''''You got it.''''


    Haruki entered back inside. As Yaori bowed her head in front of Hiroshi.


    ''''Thank you so much, Kimura-kun.'''' She said, grateful for their rescue.


    ''''It was the least I could do, Yamada-san.''''


    Yaori smiled back at him, nodding. But she quickly turned her attention to Raichi, who just let go of Hiroshi''s embrace. Her brow furrowed in concern.


    ''''Hey, S¨CSato-kun¡­ I thought you were about to collapse back there¡­!'''' Yaori said softly, her voice barely above a whisper. She was fidgeting nervously. ''''You¨CYou looked like you were going mad¡­ struggling just to stand. The way you stood there¡­ I couldn''t hold back my tears anymore¡­''''


    Raichi''s lips twitched into a weak smile. His exhaustion and fear were palpable in his demeanor as he looked back at her.


    ''''Truth is¡­ I almost did¡ª!''''


    Yaori''s breath caught, her eyes immediately widened, and she closed her mouth in shock.


    ''''My vision¡­ it was¡ª it was fading¡­'''' Raichi continued, his voice low and shaky. He couldn''t hold it in anymore, as tears started swelling up on his face. At the same time, once she heard Raichi''s words, Yaori did the same thing. Her eyes slowly made way for more tears.


    Without thinking, she rushed up to him, stepping forward and wrapping her arms around him, pulling him tightly into a hug. She had seen him mention his weakness when it came to facing people, but to hear how close he was to fainting then and there¡­ was too much for even her to bear.


    ''''''I''m¡ªI''m so sorry, Sato-kun¡ª!'''' Her voice wavered, her tears falling onto his shoulder, soaking. She kept speaking in between sobs. ''''I¨CI should have joined in¡ª Just maybe¡ªmaybe¡ª it wouldn''t have been so bad for you¡ª!''''


    Raichi hesitated before putting his hand on her back. He mulled over what to say, sobbing just like her, trying to be careful of what to say.


    ''''Y¨CYamada-san¡­ It''s not¡ªnot your fault! You were going through it, too¡­''''


    ''''But¡ªBut still¡ª!'''' She tightened her grip, afraid to let go. ''''I¨CI would have never¡ªnever¡­ wanted to see you hurt like that¡­!''''


    Their throats tightened. They both held each other tightly, as their sobs grew louder, and tears dropped on their clothing, on the ground. They stood like that for a little while longer, at least until their crying had stopped. At that moment, Raichi felt that he was cared for, despite being the outsider he told himself to be. Hiroshi and Hara watched the two in silence, looking away in sorrow.


    ''''Well¡ª at last¡­ it''s over, Yamada-san¡­''''


    ''''Y¨CYes¨C it''s¡­ it''s over.''''


    <hr>


    Knowing they couldn''t stand in the hallway for too long, when the bell rang, the four friends entered back inside. The classroom had already settled back into its usual rhythm. Despite the incident being done and over with, Yaori could sense some disturbance within Raichi. She could sense just how much the morning still weighed on him, his shoulders tensing every time a glance had come his way. His exhaustion and frayed eyes made his concealment fairly obvious, his eyes downcast in his desk. She had been paying attention to it covertly.


    She nodded to herself, her determination flickering in her chest.


    Sato-kun¡­ I¨CI want to help him, even if a little.


    Glancing down at her empty desk, she remembered the day Raichi had given her the book that had been her favorite for who knows how long, with a sign from the author. His expression was similar to that of that day: distant and slightly out of bounds. It felt¡­ strange to see him like this again. She gathered her courage and turned towards him.


    ''''S¨CSato-kun¡­ I think I¡­ forgot my book today.''''


    Raichi blinked back at her, curiously tilting his head, slightly surprised. ''''You¨CYou¡­ forgot?''''


    Yaori softly nodded, her cheeks getting dusted with a rosy shade, but she kept her gaze, smiling gently.


    ''''I¨CI did¡­ I don''t really want to fall behind¡­'''' She said, fidgeting with the edge of her seat as she muttered, her voice barely above a whisper. ''''C¨CCould I¨C sit with you this period?''''


    Raichi stared at her for a solid second before the realization hit him, processing her words, his heart skipping a beat or two. Raichi was familiar with Yaori by now, knowing her smile. But this time, it was like she had given him a different kind of smile. A steady, shy, and one reserved for him. There was a hint of confidence to it.


    ''''O¨COkay¡­ go ahead, Yamada-san.''''


    He said as he helped Yaori move her seat, merging the two and making a double-sized desk. She had no hesitation settling in.


    As the small gap between them closed, their shoulders were brushing. And despite putting on a brave, adorable smile, on the inside, she was extremely stirred. Looking down at Raichi''s workbook, she tried to distract herself, only to meet Raichi''s quick gaze.


    She immediately turned away, but Raichi was able to catch the faint pink on her cheeks. When he understood what Yaori''s intentions might be, he blushed lightly, looking down at his desk with an appreciative smile. His thoughts were interrupted.


    ''''Th-Thank you,'''' Yaori mumbled, smiling at him again. The same smile that seemed to be unfiltered just this time, unreserved, unlike the imitated smile she wore around others. As if, her usual carefully constructed mask was¡­ shed, just for this moment. He gave her a genuine smile, his cheeks slightly warming up.


    "No, um¨C thank you, Yamada-san."


    And with that, the class had started. The entire period, Yaori had been unusually close. Their shoulders were touching the entire time, the balance between them felt like fragile glass, able to snap at any moment. But it never did. The murmurs in the class faded into the background, as Raichi finally felt the calm breeze for the first time today. His shoulders had relaxed, and his anxiety was now put to ease. He felt tethered by the warmth of her presence. He had gotten so comfortable, that he yawned, realizing his drowsiness, likely caused by the incident earlier this morning. He usually rested to spend time and let the class end. But this time, he truly wanted to rest a little.


    He glanced at her, who immediately met his gaze. Before he said his mind, he looked away bashfully. Yaori, sensing that Raichi had something to say, murmured,


    ''''Sato-kun¡­ do you¡­ have something on your mind?''''


    ''''Uhh¡ª'''' Raichi looked back at her, his eyes darting around. ''''I-I''m going to rest for a little while¡­ if that is okay with you¡­''''


    Yaori nodded understandingly, happy to see him willing to go to sleep as he always does.


    ''''Sure¨C go ahead Sato-kun, I''ll be right here.''''


    Raichi slowly put his arms together, leaning towards his desk and burying his head in his crossed arms, immediately getting comfortable. He could feel Yaori''s eyes on him, but he didn''t mind. If he was to be honest¡­ it was one of the few eyes he wasn''t against being on him. With Yaori watching over him, he let himself fall asleep.


    As he drifted off to sleep, his breathing grew soft, but uneven. His fingers slightly trembling as they clenched, unbeknownst to him. In his dreams, he spun to find himself inside an eerie, hollow hallway. It was somewhere completely unknown to his imagination. Although, its cold, frigid atmosphere was somewhat familiar to him. The walls, floor, heck¡­ every part of the ''''hallway'''', was made out of thick, see-through, slightly reflective glass, with seemingly no reflection of himself on the walls, despite being polished. The world beyond was¡­ unsettling. It looked like the hallway was encased, and deep underwater, with a vast dark blue shade and gradient all around, except for the out-of-reach ocean surface up above. The light was beaming through the surface onto the hallway. Even being underwater, he was not safe from being observed, the fish around creepily looking at him, and passing along. There was a profound, nearly suffocating silence. He instinctively tried to get a sense of the walls, touching the slippery and cool glass surrounding him. As he started to walk through the hallway, he heard his footsteps echoing back to him. He was able to see beyond the endless maze of the glass hallway, seeing it go on for miles and miles. He kept walking, and walking, and walking.


    ''''Wh¡ªWhere am I?!'''' He yelled into the infinity of blue nothingness, stopping for a second. ''''I-I gotta get out of here¡­''''


    He took another step forward, meeting a sudden, terrifying feeling of absence on his feet, as he fell right through the floor into the boundless ocean, slowly being swallowed whole. He let out a frit gasp before falling.


    He was spiraling downwards, petrified. He moved his hands up and down, flailing his legs like a drowning mammal. The blue darkened around him as he tried to scream, his cry for help muffled by the water flooding in. He sank further and further.


    ''''H¡ªHel-p me¡ª!''''


    His desperate attempts at swimming failed. Soon, he let go of his legs, miserably raising one of his arms, trying to reach for the light that was slowly fading out of sight. He struggled against the sharp pain in his chest, the muted yet distinct sounds of his air bubbles coming out of his nose and mouth. But then¡ª he was awoken with a sharp¨Cfrantic inhale and exhale, finding himself back in the classroom.


    He slightly flinched as he woke up, vividly shaking the combined seat. Still out of breath, he raised his head from his arms, looking down at his desk as he processed the closure of his nightmare. It seemed like they were on a break. He blinked rapidly, trying to shake off the disorientation. He turned his head, seeing Yaori standing close by, looking down at him in deep concern.


    ''''S¨CSato-kun, thank goodness¡­ I was so worried¡­'''' Yaori said softly, looking slightly afraid as she pointed at his hands. ''''Your¡ª your fists¡­ they were clinched so tightly in your sleep¡­ you kept jumping for a while, too¡­''''


    Raichi blinked in confusion, barely feeling any pain anywhere Yaori mentioned. But as he lowered his gaze down to his hands, he saw the deep, pale creases that had been left on his knuckles by his stiff clenching. His fingers uncurled slowly, and as he did, he felt¡­ a slight warmth resting lightly on one of his hands¡ª Yaori''s. Her bare, snug hand had held his in hers. His hand must have been left quite bloodless, as her hand''s heat was immeasurable compared to his. His pulse quickened as he dissected over his hands, he couldn''t help but do the same with Yaori''s, seeing her dainty, tiny nails. The touch anchored him where he was, especially after the unsettling, traumatizing¡­ vision, or whatever it was.


    Yaori, sensing his gaze, gave him a reassuring smile as she pulled her hand back. However, the heat of her touch lingered, leaving a sense of absence in its wake.


    Raichi stared at his whitened knuckles, a pang of distress and embarrassment tugging at his face, his eyes slightly shaking as he kept looking at them. He was still slightly tense from what happened in his head earlier, how unnerving it was. That helpless feeling of sinking, reaching out only to grab absolutely nothing.


    ''''S¨CSato-kun¡­ I¨CI think you should stay awake for a while¡ª!'''' Yaori muttered firmly as if she was making a forceful suggestion. ''''I would¡ª I would be worried sick if you slept again¡­''''


    H¨CHuh?


    He thought, his defenses down for the unexpected statement of consideration. He glanced up to see her immediately turn away, her cheeks blushing slightly. It was likely that she realized the implication of what she just said, her face softened in embarrassment. He saw her tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.


    Her growing concern for him, and her tender gaze and voice when talking to him had him flustered, but also indebted for the unexpected support. He smiled softly.


    ''''Th¨CThank you, Yamada-san¡­ you''re¡ªyou''re right. I should start taking some class notes right about now, anyway¡­''''


    ''''I¨CI was just¡­ watching out for you, y''know¡­'''' Yaori turned back around, her hands touching each other in a stuck-up fidget as she gazed at him. ''''I couldn''t see how hurt you were this morning¡­ I felt like I needed to make up for that¡­''''


    He got even more flustered at the sight of a bashful Yaori. He thought that he was the one who was supposed to watch out for the other, that feeling of owing something more than just mere items or symbols to somebody special. Turning away, he mumbled under his cute pout,


    ''''D¨CDon''t say stuff like that with¡ªwith such a face¡­'''' Raichi said, still turned away towards the wall, red as a tomato. ''''It''s¡ª making me get all flustered¡­''''


    ''''O-Oh! I''m¨CI''m sorry!'''' She yelped out in a whisper, immediately diverting the other way, her face getting redder and redder.


    Once the fluttering feeling had been laid to rest, she smiled to herself, absolutely elated. Elated, to have Raichi on the ropes, blushing as much as he did when talking to her. It made her feel special to be the only one to unveil the true Raichi behind the stoic, uncaring mask. He was a gentle, sweet boy, caring and brave enough to face his biggest fear and insecurity for someone he held dear. He was valiant enough to let himself crumble beneath what he feared most so the valuable person wouldn''t have to bear it. To have gained the uttermost trust of Raichi, and to be able to give that same trust back.


    <hr>


    As the entire class was eagerly awaiting for the lunch bell to ring, anticipation began to set in Yaori''s head. She had been waiting for this moment ever since they parted ways this weekend after the mall trip. A one-on-one, private lunch with Raichi. She brightly turned towards him, trying to see from his face whether the rushing feeling was mutual. Raichi noticed her gaze, bashfully, he looked away, confused. And that was when the bell rang.


    The majority of the class immediately rushed towards the door with the teacher''s dismissal, reminding the class to do their homework before taking her leave. Yaori blinked in merry uncertainty as she put Raichi under her adorable scrutiny. Raichi had never struggled this much against Yaori''s charms till now, but something within her just suddenly made her so appealing today. Perhaps it was her welcoming consolation that came with today''s events, he didn''t have a clue why though. She had particularly given Raichi a lot of attention on this occasion.


    Yaori slowly leaned over, taking a small breath of courage before speaking up.


    ''''Sato-kun¡­ I assume you haven''t forgotten, have you?''''


    Raichi blinked in surprise, thrown off momentarily. But he quickly caught on. The promise that they had made to each other before. They were supposed to have lunch together today. He couldn''t lie, he was really looking forward to it. He had never thought he''d see himself taking something as little as a simple lunch so seriously. Although, today''s stress was likely so overwhelming that he had to remind himself of it.


    His lips hinted at a smirk.


    ''''Forgotten¡­'''' he feigned ignorance. ''''I would never forget something so¡­ memorable.''''


    Yaori raised an eyebrow. She suppressed her chuckle with a gentle smile. ''''Thank goodness¡­ I''d hate to think you weren''t as excited as I was¡­''''


    Their brand new connection, which had been flowing way better than it used to, and with such ease, suddenly turned rather baffled. Their minds were likely in sync at this moment, as the realization that they didn''t have anywhere to go for said private lunch dawned on them. They looked at each other with a disappointed expression.


    ''''Um¨C Sato-kun¡­ we don''t know where to eat lunch, don''t we?''''


    ''''Ye-Yeah¡­ I''m guessing you also had forgotten that¡­''''


    ''''I¨CI did¡­''''


    The looming awkward silence was imminent. And it was something both of them would rather avoid. Luckily for them though, a two-winged savior was watching their conversation, of course with the smuggiest of grins. This¡ª challenge of finding a special spot was no struggle for the likes of a student council member, Hiroshi. As a model student, somehow, a model student, he had a lot of privileges as a member. Not only would this help his matchmaker-oriented goals of getting the two bookworms to interact and connect, but it would also help them out, two birds with one stone. Er- in this case, two worms with¡­ one piece of apple¡­? Literally.


    ''''Looking for a spot, eh?'''' Hiroshi turned back towards them from his seat, hands in his pocket. ''''I know just the place, y''know¡­''''


    ''''Hiroshi-kun¡­ you do?'''' Raichi blinked, turning his attention toward him. But slightly getting frustrated as he realized, ''''Wait¡­ that means you were eavesdropping on us!''''


    ''''Well¡ª uhh¡ª never mind that¡­!'''' Hiroshi said, clearly enjoying Raichi''s exasperation with a playful grin, as Yaori curiously listened to him. ''''Yamada-san probably knows already¡­ but I''ll have you know I am in the student council¡­ and the council room just so happens to be free during lunch.''''


    Raichi and Yaori looked back and forth at each other, Raichi''s face stiffening with uncertainty as Yaori''s eyes lit up with intrigue. Raichi was indecisive about the offer, as he knew what kind of shenanigans Hiroshi liked to get up to. He was conscious of Hiroshi''s plans with the wingman''s mantle, and his instinct told him to at least have some doubt in it.


    ''''Y''know¡­ that offer seems almost too generous¡­ what do you have in mind, Hiroshi-kun?'''' Raichi said, taking on a more neutral pout as he stared Hiroshi down.


    ''''Hey, I am just trying to help a brother out¡­'''' Hiroshi said, putting his arms together with a taunting scoff. ''''If you really don''t believe me, then I''ll even come along.''''


    Yaori''s face lit up even more at his words for whatever reason, and she spoke up avidly.


    ''''That¨CThat sounds perfect, Kimura-kun! We''ll gladly take you on your offer¡­!''''


    ''''See? She gets it,'''' Hiroshi raised his eyebrows up and down sarcastically, his smug expression still vivid. ''''C''mon¡­''''


    ''''Fine, fine¡­ ugh.'''' Raichi accepted reluctantly.


    ''''Hooray! You won''t regret it¡­!''''


    Hiroshi said, his enthusiasm bubbling up as he led them out of the classroom into the bustling halls.


    At first, everything seemed normal. Raichi and Yaori brightly followed closely after Hiroshi''s carefree stride. Until¡­ his fear of going back into those sharp-eyed corridors and unwanted memories quickly overshadowed and dimmed that fluttering of excitement. His gaze promptly drifted downwards, his expression slowly darkening. The halls weren''t too crowded, and the group of students that were there didn''t entirely stare at them either. But the random absence and reappearance of their glares is what really caused his insecurity and the paranoia that came with it, a never-ending, self-perpetuating cycle. It was something that he just couldn''t shake off. In the past, those who had been engraved into his mind¡ª would sometimes talk to him normally, which was very peculiar. The next moment, their tones would be that of¡­ sarcasm, with an underlying dose of deprecation. They were friends on the surface, but sometimes¡ª they would just be straight up cretin. He would either be invisible to those around him or put on a label fitting that of a distant, faraway weirdo. These new faces had been rather direct with their vicious ways of reference, which buried him back underground, into his own safe bubble.


    Yaori could sense the shift in the atmosphere, and her own cheerful anticipation gradually turned into a silent sense of disquietude. She could make out Raichi''s shoulders, which were tense again. His attempt at avoiding raising his gaze didn''t go entirely unnoticed. She furrowed at him, and Raichi didn''t even bother looking back. It couldn''t be any less obvious. Hiroshi immediately caught Yaori''s assuring glance, nodding back at her.


    Oh, Sato-kun¡­ hang in there¡­ I don''t know what is weighing you exactly¡­ but I can make a sense of it.


    And finally, they reached the doors of the student council room. Hiroshi slowly pushed it open, letting the two go through first. He kept up his casual demeanor, which was likely artificial. His expression had a seriousness to it.


    Yaori glanced around the room, taking in its surroundings. There was a vibrant and simple couch and a practical dining table. A comfortable and small, old-fashioned kitchen was standing to the left of the door, with essential kitchen supplies present. Everything inside was placed accordingly in a specific way to face the window, which didn''t draw any sunlight during this time of the day. It also had air conditioning. There were various portraits on the wall, which caught Yaori''s attention. Children were posing, in a fitting, red and white themed sports clothing, holding a trophy in their hand. Another one had some students bowing down together on stage, likely a play organized by the student council. They were likely memorial heirlooms passed down from each group of student council members as the years went by.


    Hiroshi looked at the room with a prideful smile, but briefly gazed at Yaori, nodding before Raichi saw him doing so.


    ''''Well¡ªI''ll have to get food of my own, so¡­ I''ll go to the cafeteria to get some. You two can dig in without me, aight?'''' He said, stepping aside and walking to the door, backward, grinning lightheartedly.


    Yaori nodded back at him solemnly, understanding the gesture with the go-ahead.


    ''''Y¨CYou got it, Kimura-kun¡­''''


    ''''Enjoy your lunch.'''' He said, before the double door clicked shut.


    The click of the door made a gradual way to apprehensive silence, as neither didn''t sit down right off the bat.


    Just as Yaori was about to indicate for Raichi to take his seat on the couch, he walked toward it like a zombie and sat down. Her hand stood frozen in the air momentarily before she followed suit.


    Yaori glanced at him. But to no avail, he kept his gaze focused on the table as he unpacked his bento. His movement was grounded, and even after he started eating, his appetite was slowly fading. She watched him thoughtfully as he was munching down with precise movement. There was no light in his eyes¡ª as if he were biting down on his sanity. The Raichi she knew with a gentle spirit had been shut down in his place. Or perhaps he was simply fooled into doing so by his own mentally raptured head. He could hardly bring himself to eat.


    He occasionally raised his head, his eyes widening for a second before bringing it down again. Every time he looked at her, his vision flickered back to the Yaori he had seen hours ago. The Yaori that had gotten pale, fear-stricken. Her frail, vulnerable image was gnawing at his mind, unable to unsee it, his body aching at the thought of seeing her in such a state again. Like some sort of film reel being played over and over. His breathing had grown shallow. They both had been backed into a corner,


    He didn''t even have a clue, but he was staring at her the entire time, visibly shaken.


    ''''S¨CSato-kun¡­ are¨C are you alright?'''' She said, concerned about his well-being. ''''I''m here¡­''''


    His repeating film came to a sudden stop as Raichi shook it off, her voice almost breaking him, shattering what little composure he had left. He looked back up, dropping his chopstick on the table as he gathered his thoughts. But the words just caught in his throat. All he could muster was subtle drops of tears. The memories he had fought to bury resurfaced like the undead, all because of his recklessness when talking to her, he thought. And now, he sadly brought himself down with her. Everything he had been bottling up came bursting through, the thorns of his guilt, the vines of his lack of self-understanding, and the root of it all¡­ gossip. His biggest insecurity was now right in front of him. He couldn''t take it anymore¡­ despite saying it was over back in the hallway, it just couldn''t be easier said than done. He tried to keep it in check, but Yaori''s innocent look of consideration in her eyes made it hard to look at her again. It reminded him of their first meeting¡­ the same look she had given to him when he entrusted her with Miyamoto-san''s book. He tried to stay strong¨C for her. But in the end, he couldn''t hold a candle to the untouchable and tenacious Yaori''s resolve when it came to dealing with popularity. He had weaknesses. His old scars, had not even healed properly.


    Raichi forced out a shaky breath, his voice barely above a whisper.


    ''''I¡ªI''m not alright, Yamada-san¡­ I''m far¨C far from that¡ª!'''' He wiped his tears, struggling to speak. ''''It¨CIt''s happening again!''''


    Yaori shifted slightly, her concern deepening as she leaned in. Her eyes were a little teary.


    ''''The¨CThe stares and whispers I had tried to ignore for¨C for so long¡­'''' Raichi choked out, his voice getting raspier. ''''They never¨C never went away¡ª! I used to tell myself¨C that strangers'' opinions didn''t matter to me¡­''''


    Yaori reached out, putting her hand on his shoulder. Her fingers tightened as she used her other hand to cover her mouth. Raichi kept bawling his eyes out, his crying had gotten even more intense as he kept talking in anguish.


    ''''It is because of that¨C that I¡ª! I got labeled¡­ labeled without ever knowing who I was myself!''''


    ''''S-Sato-kun¡­''''


    He clenched his fists, forcing himself to finally face her, willing to drop the weight he had been carrying on his chest for so long.


    ''''I¨CI tried to be more¡­ I tried¨C to get along¡­ I got tossed¨C given an identity I never asked for to begin with¡ª And now, they''re¨C they''re turning their eyes on you too, Yamada-san¡­'''' He put his clenched fists on his chest.


    ''''S¨CSato-kun, I''ll¡­ I''ll be fine¨C'''' Her words were cut off.


    ''''I¨CI don''t want you to go through what I did¨C Yamada-san! And all¡ª and all because of me¡­''''


    His last words hung in the air, trembling Yaori, shivering her in place. His tears welled up even more, as most of it fell freely onto the couch. They both looked at each other in disbelief. But most importantly, as she moved closer, Yaori''s eyes were brimming. Seeing Raichi in such sight¡ª was painful, and gut-wrenching. She was finally able to conceive his pain, and the truth hurt deeply in a way she hadn''t expected. His voice was filled with such raw doubt. She couldn''t let it linger any further.


    She dropped her hand from his shoulder as she cupped hers with his. Her sudden gentle grip gave Raichi a reason to pause.


    ''''¡ªSato-kun. Don''t¡ª Don''t say that!'''' She scolded, her tone full of sorrow and pity, trembling at the edges. ''''This is¨C no¨C This was never because of you¡­''''


    Raichi searched for her face, dumbfounded. He blinked, burrows furrowing as her fierce tone and gaze caught him off guard.


    ''''It is just that¡­ things¨C things just happen!'''' She said as she wiped off the tears on her cheeks.'''' People¡ª will just have things to say¡ª and we can''t do much against it¡­''''


    She raised the hands she held cupped together, looking Raichi dead in the eye.


    ''''But¨C That doesn''t make it any more true¡ª! And it¨C it doesn''t mean you deserve it¡ª''''


    Lowering her gaze, she gathered her thoughts, unable to put what she intended into words momentarily. She then stiffened her hold, adamantly looking back up at him.


    ''''You''re¡ª You''re not some label, Sato-kun!'''' Her sobbing intensified. She stopped wiping the tears she was holding back. ''''You''re¡­ kind¨C and the most genuine person I''ve¨C I''ve ever met! You care so much about me that¡­ you would rather put yourself in the line of danger¨C all just to protect me!


    Her voice cracked as she said those last few lines. She swallowed audibly.


    ''''Back¨C Back when we first met¨C days ago. When you¡­ gave me Miyamoto-san''s very signed copy¨C it made me very¡­ very happy! It must have been your most valued possession¡­ and yet¨C you gave it to me¡­ because you knew it would make me happy. That kindness¨C is why I wanted to be friends with you¡­''''


    ''''...Y-Yamada-san¨C''''


    ''''So¨C Please! Don''t¨C Don''t drop that smile of yours that I love to see¡­ Don''t¨C Don''t blame that kindhearted nature of yours that was willing to see my safety through and through¨C! You''re¡­ You''re not a burden!''''


    Silence took over the entire room. Raichi''s heart was swelling, and he felt a feeling that he hadn''t felt in such a long time. That warm¨C yet fuzzy feeling of being cared for by a friend. He was unable to really get through to his two friends about how he felt for so long. He had thought that the past was the past¡ª that he truly didn''t care about strangers'' opinions anymore. But that was¡­ a lie. His newly beloved relationship with Yaori was trivialized, and of course, it bothered him. It wouldn''t be normal if it didn''t. A private relationship that he held in such high value, was seen as a mere talkabout for everybody around. It was sickening, and it was like a dirk, headed right for his heart. People had no respect for his private life, and that broke him. To finally see someone there for him, he was forever grateful. But suddenly, without another word¨C


    Yaori wrapped her arms around him, putting her head on his shoulder in front of him. She pulled him into her embrace. He could feel one of her hands gently resting on his back, and the other draped across his shoulder. He let out a shuddering breath in response, finally relieved as he let all the tears that he had locked away out, his sobbing was as intense as it could get, it was only downhill from here.


    ''''Ya¨CYamada-san¡­!'''' He muttered in between his sobs, leaning into her embrace.


    Her touch was¡­ soft. The warm feeling he felt slowly eased his pain as he could turn on the valve for once. Yaori had managed to be the first person to ever seep through his defenses.


    ''''I¨CI¡­ don''t know what to say, Yamada-san¡­''''


    ''''But¨C I  know what I have to say, Sato-kun¡­'''' Yaori muttered into his shoulder. ''''That trust you have in me¡­ I''m going to¡ª going to give it to you ten times back. I want you to know¡­ you''re allowed to feel hurt, okay¡­?''''


    ''''O¨COkay.''''


    ''''Because¡­ it hurts me equally¡­ to see you this way.''''


    Raichi simply nodded, both staying that way for a little while. They enjoyed the silence that remained, and the tears that had finally been let loose, alleviating the chip in Raichi''s shoulder that had haunted him for years.


    <hr>


    All the while¡­ a certain gold hair was watching on the other side of the council doors¡­ attentively listening to whatever just took place inside. Although now, all he could hear was the tinkering of chopsticks and the bright sounds of chatter. He was holding his hand on his face, rather exasperated.


    ''''Oh¡ª Raichi-kun¡­ I''ve achieved my victory¡­ but at what cost?'''' He muttered, slightly disappointed, yet content. ''''Why¡­ why wouldn''t you say anything, you idiot?''''